Energy Systems
The Energy Systems Division of Facilities and Services manages the production and distribution of the heating and cooling for campus. Our staff of engineers and technicians continually assess new technologies and energy options to assure SDSU utilizes the most efficient and reliable systems both environmentally and fiscally.
The central heating plant serves approximately 80% of the campus buildings. Buildings not served by the central heating plant utilize boilers, both options run off natural gas. During the heating season, the central heating plant is staffed 24 hours a day.
There are two chiller plants on campus which currently provide cooling to approximately 50% of the buildings. Plans are in place to continue adding existing buildings, as well as any new construction, to one of the two plants to achieve the goal of serving 100% of the buildings. Buildings not currently connected to a chiller plant use either a building chiller or window air conditioning units. By utilizing a chiller plant, it increases the reliability of the service, saves energy, and minimizes equipment and maintenance responsibilities.
The Energy System Division is also leveraging on-site power generation through rooftop solar panels. With four buildings currently using this clean power source, the intent is to increase the number of buildings by adding solar panels in conjunction with roof replacement projects. The solar power generated remains with the building to help fill the demand, but typically is unable to produce 100% of the need. Facilities and Services is excited about future of this renewable energy and how it will serve the campus needs in the future.
Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) is the primary source (80%) of electricity used on campus. WAPA utilizes 100% hydroelectric power and SDSU is proud of this partnership and our ability to use such an environmentally friendly option for our electrical needs.
Campus water is supplied by Brookings Municipal Utilities.
Sustainability
SDSU strives to create a sustainable campus by using the three pillars approach to sustainability: environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
- Environmental sustainability – the act of preserving, restoring, and utilizing the earth’s natural resources in a way that does not inhibit ecological services, remove resources faster than they can be replenished, or harm the surrounding environment.
- Social sustainability – the act of ensuring all people are treated with equity and have access to basic human rights, including but not limited to: clean water, nutrition, education, healthcare, sanitation, shelter, security, a meaningful livelihood, and the opportunity to pursue their aspirations.
- Economic sustainability – the act of distributing money and resources equitably so that all may obtain basic human needs. Being economically sustainable should allow the economy to function, prosper, and thrive.
Facilities and Services is proud to initiate, facilitate and manage a variety of sustainable-focus initiatives on campus. The following is a list of some notable areas of focus: STARS Silver Rating, Bee Campus USA member since 2018, Tree Campus USA member since 2009, LEED Certified buildings – (3) Gold and (16) Silver.
Our recycling efforts include single stream recycling, which includes paper, cardboard, cans, glass, and plastic. Cardboard is collected separately. The campus Recycling Guide can be found here. You can submit a Recycling Request by calling the Facilities and Services front desk at 605-688-4136.
As new initiatives, processes and technologies emerge, our staff assess if/how SDSU can benefit from growing and diversifying our existing sustainability practices.
Visit the dedicated Sustainability page.