Energy Conservation

• Replacing all incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
• Implementing task lighting in lieu of general lighting.
• Installing timers and motion detectors on lighting systems, so that lighting automatically shuts off when not in use.
• Encouraging the use of natural lighting in offices with windows.
• Keeping window blinds open in the colder months to take advantage of the sun’s natural heat. Closing window blinds in the warmer months to cool offices down.
• Promoting the use of Energy Star products and equipment.
• Enabling power management features (i.e. sleep mode) on all office equipment, including printers, photocopiers, and computers.
• Turning off and/or unplugging unused equipment and other devices that drain energy when not in use.
• Installation of water reduction devices and low-flow bathroom fixtures.
• Creation of a state-of-the-art energy database to collect utility usage data from all State buildings to monitor energy usage and allow for additional energy savings opportunities.
• Implementing rooftop solar PV (photovoltaic) systems on five State buildings to generate over 585,000 kWh of electricity per year.
• Implementation of solar hot water heating systems at Government House in Annapolis, the University of Baltimore, and the Maryland Department of Agriculture.
• Purchase of clean energy from local solar and wind energy sources.
• Installation of variable frequency drives (VFDs) on air handler and return fan motors to reduce the electricity used at the State’s Multi-Service Center sites.
• Developed and installed computer management programs for HVAC systems to enhance building climate and reduce energy consumption.
• Installation of a wind turbine at the State Highway Administration’s Maintenance Facility in Westminster to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of using wind energy to help power State Highway facilities.
• Use of geothermal heating at Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum.