MSU institutes energy-efficient building plan

In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint and save money this summer, Missouri State University has instituted a class consolidation plan involving academic buildings on campus.

The initiative calls for four buildings to be vacant during evening hours and weekends, which is expected to save MSU $6,500 and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 79 metric tons during the course of the summer. MSU has predicted a 15 percent drop in electricity per building compared to the prior year, according to a news release.

“With improvements in technology, databases and communication between departments, an idea emerged that will save energy dollars at zero cost,” said Krista Bassen, university facilities analyst, in the release.

During the first phase of the program - this summer - Pummill, Siceluff, Glass and Hill halls will be set to "unoccupied-mode" at 5 p.m. each weekday and on weekends. Temperatures will be allowed to rise to no higher than 80 degrees in the buildings when classes aren't in session.

The university's scheduling coordinator, Shelley Netzer, is slated to work with departments to relocate classes scheduled in the targeted buildings during off-hours, the release said.

“Building heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems are some of MSU’s energy hogs,” MSU energy Manager Pilar Karlen said in the release. “By extending the program for fall and spring semesters, it is estimated that the university will save $60,000 and the carbon reduction will be 709 metric tons."