Winter break energy saving | Three things to do before you go
This year’s University closure period runs from Thursday 22 December to Monday 2 January 2023, inclusive. Keep reading for three steps you can take to help reduce our energy usage over the break.
We’re grateful to the Estates team for managing the University buildings during the break to avoid unnecessary energy use. This helps us advance our goal, as part of the University’s Climate Plan, to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Here are three steps you can take to support them before leaving the office:
1 – Make sure all windows are closed.
Our heating systems are set to a low level to protect building fabric and services; a window left open accidentally can significantly affect the amount of energy it takes to maintain this low level of heat.
2 – Switch off all electrical items, including:
- Lights
- IT equipment, such as computers, screens and projectors
- Portable electric heaters (please also ensure that these are unplugged for safety)
- Hot water boilers
- Microwaves
- Printers
Please also ensure as much lab equipment as possible is turned off before you leave – including drying cabinets and incubators etc.
We understand some equipment is required to maintain safety or is being used for research purposes and therefore needs to remain on. However, any equipment which can be turned off will help us to avoid wasted energy.
3 – Switch off at home
If you’re working from home, you can help to reduce your own energy consumption by unplugging any University equipment you won’t be using during the closure period.
Thank you for helping us to avoid unnecessary energy use. We hope you have a restful break.