University departments can improve campus energy efficiency through the Revolving Loan Fund. This semester, more than $800,000 will be available for utility conservation projects with short-term payback periods.
Ideas like installing LEDs and occupancy sensors to reduce electrical consumption are examples of RLF projects that make facilities more energy efficient. Interested individuals and groups are encouraged to submit project ideas at http://go.fs.illinois.edu/rlf. The forms are due Friday, March 10. The RLF Committee will evaluate proposals beginning in mid-April, with project selection occurring this summer.
“The most important part of the RLF is the creativity of students, faculty and staff to help take new energy conservation ideas and turn them into projects that create a significant impact,” said Facilities and Services engineer specialist Josh Whitson.
The campus has decreased energy usage per gross square foot by 27.5 percent since fiscal year 2008 through investments in centrally managed programs and occupant action. In 2016, the RLF Committee allocated more than $1.2 million in funding for nine projects.
