The university is designating Thursday, July 21 – Friday, July 22 as an Energy Alert period on campus. An excessive heat watch remains in effect through Saturday evening with heat index values forecast in excess of 105 degrees.  

During this period, energy conservation efforts should be maximized, especially from the hours of 2:00 – 6:00 p.m., as energy usage is expected to establish new peak levels across the Midwest regional grid.

As a participant in the electric market, the university's yearly utility rates include a capacity charge based on usage at the moment of the peak demand load.

Here is how you can help Beat the Peak:
Turn off lights when possible
Close windows in conditioned areas
Unplug non-essential equipment
Shut down computers/printers when not in use
Adjust thermostats to a more efficient setting
Turn off window AC units in unused spaces
Close fume hood sashes when not in use

More energy conservation tips are available from the Energy Conservation Incentive Program: http://go.fs.illinois.edu/energytips. For questions, contact the F&S Energy Management Control Center at fandsenergycomm@illinois.edu, 244-3783.

Your efforts are appreciated and make a difference!