Arroyo Hall was remodeled over the Spring Break and a number of sustainable features were included. Most sustainable of all is the gymnasium floor's durability, guaranteed with a 20-year warranty. Other significant sustainable features include new insulation and the "cool" roof. A cool roof is a light-colored reflective roof material that reduces solar heat gain. One of the most noticeable interior green features is the addition of skylights, which have eliminated the need for artificial light during the daytime in the hallways on the second floor.

Over the last 7 months beginning in June 2009, we have reduced electricity consumption by 15% based on KWH/GSF and 11% in absolute basis, over the same 7 month period in 2008. We are enjoying savings of 20% based on $/GSF and 17% in absolute basis over the same period in 2008 (the October KWH usage is an outlier and appears suspicious; we have contacted SCE to verify the data). The May data represents the trend if nothing was done – our electricity bill would have kept increasing. The campus GSF has increased by approximately 4% since 2008 and the consumption would have increased also. After we started implementing the energy savings measures in June 2009, the campus power consumption dropped significantly and the trend has continued. Since June 2009, we have implemented several Zero-Cost energy savings measures. These include controlling HVAC temperature, shutting off steam systems, turning off lights whenever possible and keeping University Hall vacant. IT has contributed to the savings by installing power management software in our computers. When we did the 09-10 utility budget, our goal was to save 7-8% over last year's budget (before adjusting for increases in occupied gsf). It appears that we will exceed our target for this FY. The next phase of the energy savings will come from installing energy-efficient lighting in the existing buildings. We have received approval for rebates from SCE and will schedule work as funds become available.

The university introduced a new energy and cost saving program to support the campus' ongoing sustainability efforts. Computers will automatically be put into standby mode after 60 minutes of inactivity and monitors will go dark after 10 minutes of inactivity. The program begins on July 13 and will encompass all campus computers (Windows and Macintoshes).

This system will help save energy; however, even more energy can be saved by totally powering down computers and turning off surge protectors when the computer will not be in use overnight or for an extended period of time.

CSUCI is vigilant in energy conservation efforts, especially related to electrical use, heating and cooling, and water use. Consistent with CSU Executive Order 987, CSUCI is adjusting heating and cooling to provide occupant comfort, yet reduce energy consumption. Mechanical equipment is being adjusted to heat occupied spaces up to 68 degrees, and to cool occupied spaces down to 78 degrees.

Spaces that are only cooled to 78 degrees may seem warm to those accustomed to more air conditioning. Likewise, indoor winter temperatures may seem cool. Overall, these efforts significantly improve campus sustainability. We ask that you assist the campus by supporting these efforts and by dressing seasonally in view of indoor temperatures. Further, please contact OPC anytime an occupied space exceeds 78 degrees during hot weather, or is lower than 6 degrees in cool weather. The University will make every effort to provide comfortable indoor temperatures according to these guidelines.

Over the summer and fall of 2009 the campus plans to acheive additional energy savings. These measures and other key elements already implemented will reduce campus greenhouse gas emissions and save utility costs in accordance with the University's Strategic Plan 2008 - 2013 (PDF, 3.1MB).

The University participates in a program to reuse and recycle office equipment. This business allows the public to bid on campus items such as office and computer equipment posted on an online web site hosted by Public Surplus. These efforts help to support campus sustainability by promoting the concept of reuse and recycling inventory.

The campus has developed design standards for new buildings that incorporate sustainable strategies, using recycled materials and rapidly renewable resources, and energy efficient heating, cooling and lighting systems. Planning will allow for flexibility to accommodate future uses, all in an effort to decrease the campus' impact on the local, regional and global environment. Visit our webpage on Design Standards for more information