ResourcesAPS Celebrates Energy Awareness Month
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APS has joined the state of Colorado and the nation in proclaiming October “Energy Awareness Month.” Government organizations, businesses and concerned citizens observe this month with activities to promote public understanding of energy needs and to reduce energy consumption.
The APS Maintenance & Operations Department has issued a challenge to all staff members to reduce energy use by 10 percent. The effort is part of the “APS for Conservation of Energy” plan to increase energy efficiency in the district. APS will track energy usage every month and post the results for each school and support site on the district Web site. Schools that save the most energy will be recognized as “APS Energy Stars” during the APS Quarterly Awards Program.
“APS spends $4.2 million each year on electricity-so a 10 percent reduction would mean a savings of nearly half a million dollars,” said APS Energy Consultant Timothy “Bo” Bacon. “Our staff members can make a real impact just by changing some of their daily habits. Turning off lights when you’re not in the classroom, or using natural daylight instead of overhead lights, can add up to substantial savings.”
To raise awareness about energy conservation, ACE is partnering with schools across the district on a variety of educational programs and initiatives. On Nov. 20, ACE and APS high school students will present “Earth Aid,” an environmental fair and expo. The event will highlight student conservation projects and feature products and services from Xcel Energy, local businesses and city agencies. Earth Aid is scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Aurora Central High School commons. The event is free and open to the public.
To find out more about ACE and energy saving tips, go to apscms.net/departments/maintop/energy-conservation/.
APS Energy Fact
The Hinkley High School Environmental Club researched the following question to illustrate the importance of energy efficiency.Q. How long could we illuminate a 75-watt light bulb with the 22.8 billion BTUs of energy* that Hinkley consumes each year?
A. The light bulb would remain on continuously for a period of 10,168 years– counting back from today that would be in the Stone Age, or approximately 6,000 years BEFORE the pyramids were built!* Based on 2007-08 energy consumption.
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