Western Carolina recognized for energy savings
Western Carolina University was among the 18 public colleges and universities recently honored by the state for leadership in reducing their energy consumption.
Western achieved a 30-percent reduction in energy use since a 2002 state law requiring energy reduction at universities was enacted. In 2007, a separate law required community colleges to report their use and cost data to the N.C. Utility Savings Initiative, though no reduction requirement was established.
“This just shows the great efficiencies that can be achieved when you’re committed to a goal,” said Ted Bush, director of the Division of Environmental Assistance and Customer Service. “By reducing the amount of energy used, our universities and community colleges are also helping the environment by emitting far less air pollution, and reducing their operational costs, which benefits taxpayers.”
The awards were given by the USI and the N.C. Division of Environmental Assistance and Customer Service.
