PC labs switch off over Christmas to save energy
19 December 2023
A simple initiative from Digital Technology Services (DTS) this Christmas is just one way we’re cutting down electricity use across campus.
With most students home for the holidays, around 1,400 PCs across campus computer labs have been powered down until the start of next term to reduce wastage.
Students working over the holidays can still access PCs as needed by switching machines on themselves. But the shutdown helps the University progress towards its energy reduction targets, as even devices left on standby can use around 15-20% of their usual energy consumption..
The PC shutdown is just one idea that has been realised as part of a major energy saving programme. The programme in total has saved over £600,000 on our energy bills so far.
To boost savings, colleagues can ensure that they fully shut down workspaces before the closure period. Take a look at our tips on powering down properly over the break.
“Together, we can become more sustainable”
The expanded PC switch-off follows a successful trial over Easter, in which DTS and Sustainability Services worked together to switch off 450 PCs when student demand was lower. Building on that progress, almost all of the University’s 1,450 campus lab PCs will go dark this Christmas.
Aaron Kingsbury, Head of Service Delivery in DTS, encourages colleagues to be open to new ideas when it comes to working sustainably.
With the University's Our Future First programme, colleagues can also speak to Champions in their areas for local advice on what small changes could be made.
Even minor changes can bring about real impact, especially when we all think about the little ways we can save energy.
#1 for the planet
Other changes are also also steadily driving down our carbon emissions and saving money on our energy bill as part of the major energy saving programme.
Savings so far include:
- Lights switched off if they are found lighting empty rooms, as part of an audit carried out by Sustainability Services’ Megan Taylor. This work is also supported by Security and Cleaning Services teams switching off lights as they go about their work. Saving: £625
- Amendments to the heating hours in campus buildings. Savings: £503,500
- Smart timer plugs and audit of small appliances. Saving: £10,000
- Understanding how campus spaces are used to amend heating as appropriate: £123,950
These efforts are helping us become more environmentally and financially sustainable. Green action on campus has contributed to us being named #1 in the People and Planet University League.