Energy Alert Advisory – Take Conservation Actions for Extreme Heat
July 25, 2023 3:42 PM

Dear Campus Community,

The extreme heat forecasted for this week will substantially increase demand on the regional electric grid and require significant energy optimization strategies on campus. Facilities & Services (F&S) requests that all students, faculty, and staff help take action to conserve energy to the greatest extent possible through Friday. 

Energy conservation efforts on campus should be maximized between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m., when consumption is typically the highest. If practical, please shut off, shut down, put into sleep mode, or unplug the following:

• Lights
• Computers
• Monitors
• Printers
• Chargers
• Appliances
• Other nonessential equipment

Close the following items to protect facility equipment and systems:    

• Outside windows and doors in air-conditioned areas
• Fume hood sashes when not in use

Why are extensive energy conservation efforts needed at this time?
The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) declared Conservation Operations for its central region through July 28 because of expected high temperatures and load forecast uncertainty. MISO also issued a Maximum Generation Capacity Advisory and instructed market participants to be ready to implement load-modifying resources. Should emergency conditions arise on the regional grid, F&S will utilize operational strategies and business continuity plans developed to meet the university’s energy needs for all essential services to the campus.

How can I notify someone about hot/cold concerns in university facilities?
Another way you can make a difference is by immediately reporting any temperature-related issues regarding specific rooms or building spaces to the F&S Energy Management Control Center at fandsenergycomm@illinois.edu, 217-244-3783. Also, please continue coordinating with unit facility managers and building contacts as typical throughout the notification and review process.

Thanks for always doing all you can to conserve energy across the Urbana campus, particularly at this critical time. Your continued support and collaboration are much appreciated and valued.

Sincerely,

Ehab Kamarah, Ph.D., P.Eng.
Associate Vice Chancellor and Executive Director, Facilities & Services