As a major consumer of electricity, USC stands to make vast improvements in terms of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions mitigation. USC has identified past opportunities to reduce costs as well as energy usage with projects such as the thermal energy storage system under Cromwell Field. Continuing to make improvements will guide us towards a cleaner, safer, and more responsible future. The solution, like the problem, must be the result of collective action on everybody’s part, and discussions on energy conservation and renewable energy must engage staff, faculty, and students.
Goal 1: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions per square foot by 20% from 2014 levels by 2020.
- Track and report greenhouse gas emissions
- Implement a Climate Action Plan
Goal 2: Capitalize on energy risks and opportunities.
- Reduce the financial risk of utility costs through conservation
- Reduce the financial risk of utility costs through renewable energy generation
- Exceed state energy efficiency standards in new construction
- Create a Green Revolving Fund