Energy and Climate Change
In 2007, President J. Bernard Machen was the first to sign the American College and University President’s Climate Commitment. As a University we have now set a goal of carbon neutrality by 2020. A complete audit of our carbon footprint and a plan to reach neutrality are currently being developed with the help of the Energy and Climate Change Task Force and ICBE. However, many efforts are already underway at UF to reduce our energy use and carbon emissions.
In 2001, UF Facilites Planning and Construction adopted the Leadership in Energy Efficiency Design standards for all major new construction and renovation projects. In 2006, this commitment was re-confirmed and strengthened by requiring LEED-silver criteria for design and construction for all major new construction and renovation projects. To date UF has two Gold Certified buildings, 8 certified buildings, and a number registered. We also boast a green roof on the Charles R. Perry Construction Yard. Currently, we are also beginning a pilot LEED Existing Building (EB) program.
Through a commitment to purchasing only hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles whenever possible, the university’s fleet now has more than 12 hybrids and 45 Flex Fuel vehicles. Additionally, the university stocks biodiesel and E85 ethanol for use in its fleet vehicles, is piloting biodiesel in trucks and mowers, and offers a suite of alternative transportation options for commuters and campus residents.
UF’s energy provider, Progress Energy, is the leader in energy efficiency in the State of Florida and one of the top leaders in the U.S. Here at UF, Progress has contributed to such projects as the cogeneration plant on campus, the Andrew H. Hines Jr./Progress Energy Eminent Scholar Chair professorship, and the Water Institute.
In support of alternative energy, Progress Energy has partnered with the State of Florida, Ford Motor and Chevron to open the first two hydrogen refueling stations in Florida. Progress is currently evaluating the feasibility of photovoltaic (PV) projects on campus and is purchasing the output of the two largest biomass plants in the country to expand their renewable energy portfolio. For more information on Progress Energy’s policies and reports on corporate responsibility, visit their corporate Environment webpage.
Give Us Your Feedback
The Office of Energy Conservation has established energy contacts throughout campus to assist in the lowering of campus energy consumption. They welcome your calls about concerns or comments. Please call John Lawson at (352) 392-5723.
The Land Use and Facilities Planning Committee committee is responsible for advising the University on construction issues.
