Demand Resources, like power plants and other power supply generators, are competitive assets that help meet New England’s electricity needs. By reducing end-user consumption, Demand Resources can help ensure enough electricity is available to maintain grid reliability in a cost-effective and sustainable manner.
UMass Lowell is one of the largest users of electricity in the region. As a large user, utility companies look to UMass Lowell as a leader to cut energy use when the electricity grid's systems need help maintaining supply.
These events, known as Demand Response events, typically occur when electricity is in high demand within the region, usually occurring in
- the height of summer, on very hot days when everyone has their air conditioners running, or
- extreme cold temperatures during the winter when needed electricity exceeds the utility grid’s budgeted commodity supply.
When large users like UMass Lowell cut their electricity use, they help prevent local power outages and ensure reliable electricity service for all.
Occasionally, utility companies will test how responsive large users can be to these demand requests. These are called Demand Response Audits and may occur in early summer and winter. Performing well during these test events can generate significant electricity savings for the university and promote community sustainability.
When responding to a regional high-energy demand event, or when you leave for the weekend, you are requested to please:
- Turn off and unplug all non-vital or unused electric equipment such as copiers, coffee pots, personal fans, lab equipment, radios and so forth.
- Please shut off unused printers, plotters, monitors, personal computers and other non-critical equipment.
- Turn off all manually switched lights in offices; unoccupied zones and reduce lighting where appropriate.
- Shut down or raise the temperature setting of window A/C units or thermostats to 80 degrees F.
- Facilities Management will make necessary adjustments to central cooling and mechanical systems.
- Close shades, blinds and windows to reduce the effects of summer’s heat in your space.
- Please make others in your department aware of this event.
To be successful, full participation of the campus community is necessary. Some spaces may undergo uncomfortable, but manageable, temperature changes.