Help save energy this Easter by switching off
31 March 2023
Taking a few minutes to properly shut down unnecessary equipment before the Easter break could save energy, and on costly bills.
Last year's energy bills for the 6-day closure totalled around £55,000. With increased energy costs, the charge for the same period this year could be as much as £150,000.
As many colleagues will be out of the office in that time, it’s a good idea to make sure energy isn’t being wasted on heating empty rooms and powering appliances.
Here are the Sustainability team’s top tips for saving energy while away from campus.
Work equipment:
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Turn off lights where possible.
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Turn off small power and all non-essential equipment at plug if possible. This includes PC, laptops, side lamps, extra monitors, phone chargers, any other small power devices.
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Turn off conference/AV equipment at the plug.
Heating and cooling:
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Close windows and doors.
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If you have locally controlled heating or cooling, turn it off.
In the kitchen:
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Make sure fridges and/or freezers are defrosted and clean and that doors are closed properly (but no need to switch off).
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Turn off microwaves, kettles, hot taps, and other kitchen equipment (other than fridges and or freezers)
For more specialist equipment, the Sustainability team is working with lead sustainability champions in Schools and Functions to find ways of reducing energy consumption over the break.
More hints and tips
Need more advice about switching off this Easter? Hop on over to the Library foyer on Wednesday 5 April (11:00-13:30) and meet the Sustainability team at their monthly drop-in session.
Visit rdg.ac/ourfuturefirst for more advice on making sustainable choices at home and at work.