The University of Montana, along with consumers of energy, has experienced significant increases in utility costs in the past few years.  For fiscal year 05, natural gas costs increased 70%.

Because of the continuing trend of increasing utility costs, and for general conservation purposes, the University strongly encourages people to take measures to conserve energy whenever feasible.

Simple steps to take to reduce energy consumption:

• Minimize the use of overhead lighting in work spaces, and utilize task lighting.  Flourescent bulbs are available for task lights free of charge from Facilities Services.
• Replace traditional light switches with motion sensing light switches.
• Turn lights off at the end of the day.
• Use your computer's energy saving features to power down when not in use for extended periods.
• Minimize the use of personal heaters.
• Maintain temperatures in work areas between 73 and 75 degrees in the cooling season.
• Minimize the use of individual air conditioners.  Where absolutely necessary, use ones that have a SEER rating of 11 or higher.

• Maintain Temperature in work areas between 68 and 71 degrees during the heating season.
• Do not leave doors and windows open.