Since 2012, UNC-Chapel Hill has safely lowered building temperatures and campus energy use during University holidays, particularly during the winter holiday when the University is closed for about ten consecutive days.
During the 2021 Winter Holiday Energy Saving Initiative (Dec. 23 – Jan. 2), building temperature set points will be lowered in unoccupied buildings, which saves chilled water, steam, natural gas and electricity, thereby reducing utility costs. This program can be highly successful depending on the weather, saving the University thousands of dollars in energy bills.
Campus research labs, animal facilities and designated health care facilities that are critical to the University’s mission are excluded from this program. Departments that will have special needs or events during the break that will require an exemption from this initiative should submit an exemption request below by 5 p.m. Dec. 10.
In addition to the temperature setbacks, Energy Management also requests the campus community help save energy by turning off lights and office/lab equipment, unplugging nonessential electronics, closing lab fume hoods and shutting exterior windows and doors.
2021 Winter Holiday Energy Saving Initiative Exemption Request
Purpose: To document requests for exemptions from the 2021 Winter Break Energy Saving Initiative. Exemption requests must be submitted by 5 p.m. Dec. 10. Requests will be reviewed and building occupants will be notified of approved exemptions by 5 p.m. Dec. 13. All previous exemptions will remain in effect and a new exemption request will not be required.
Temperature Setbacks: We will adjust the space temperature set points to provide a balance between energy conservation and building safety during the 2021 Winter Break from Dec. 23 at 10 p.m. through Jan. 2 at 10 p.m. Buildings will be allowed to drift between temperature limits of 58°F and 83°F.
Note: Building areas with previous exemptions from the University Energy Policy will not be included in this initiative.
Directions: Complete the form below and submit online. Please contact save-energy@unc.edu with any questions.