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E.P.A. Names U.Va. To Energy Conservation Honor Society -- Again 
June 2, 2000 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently named the University of Virginia to its Honor Society for achievements in 1999 in the EPA’s Energy Star Building Partnership, a voluntary energy conservation program. It marked the third year U.Va. has been so honored. Last year, the University’s Facilities Management employees upgraded lighting systems illuminating nearly 4 million square feet in 82 buildings. The new equipment reduced consumption of electricity by nearly 9.5 million kilowatt hours and saved the University $577,000. "We’re proud of our commitment to preventing pollution through improved energy performance and pleased to be saving money while doing so," said Tony Motto, U.Va.’s energy program manager. "Recognition through national Energy Star events allows us to mark our progress from year to year." U.Va.’s Energy Program has a consistent record of excellence. In 1997, the University was elected to the EPA National Honor Society and a year later earned a magna cum laude designation in the Honor Society. Last year, the University was named the EPA Green Lights Partner of the Year for Education. Generating energy by burning fossil fuels -- such as coal, oil or natural gas -- releases pollutants into the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants contribute to smog, acid rain and global warming. By using energy-efficient technologies that reduce energy use, the University is working for cleaner air and the preservation of natural resources. The Energy Star Buildings and Green Lights Partnership has more than 4,400 participants nationwide, including nearly 400 school districts and universities. Participants monitor baseline energy data and complete a specified number of technology upgrades that save energy and prevent pollution. By the end of 1998, education partners alone had invested $294 million in energy-efficiency upgrades, which are expected to return $1.3 billion in net savings over the life of the investments. As a magna cum laude recipient, the University is recognized on the Energy Star Buildings web site at: www.epa.gov/buildings. Contact: Betty Wooding, (804) 982-5846 |
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