Energy HighlightHatcher Graduate Library Study Carrels: In the pilot study, data loggers were used to establish that the carrels are occupied 40 hours per week on average, but during that same week, the library is open for over 100 hours. By installing occupancy sensors to turn off the lights when the rooms are not in use, it was determined a substantial amount of electrical lighting energy - and money - could be saved.
The project called for installing a ceiling-mounted occupancy sensor between every two to three carrels for a total of 190 sensors. For something as simple as turning off the unneeded lights, an estimated 147,000 kWh is saved, with an estimated cost savings of $12,800 per year. The job was completed in March 2009, at a cost of $58,500 and the payback is estimated at just over four and a half years. The sensors were adapted to go on only when an individual enters the carrel, and not when walking by in the aisle way. It’s a little early to see a decrease in the electric bills, but preliminary meter readings show a decrease in usage. Students looking for a room to study can just look up to see where the lights are off, so it’s easy to see which study rooms are vacant and available for use. It’s an additional benefit: no more wandering around in search of a quiet place to work. According to Stephen M. Hipkiss, the Facilities Coordinator-Manager for Hatcher Library, “They’re working great, right according to plan!” |
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![[photo, light in hallway indicates occupied study carrels]](../images/hatcher_hall_lites339x618.jpg)
![[photo: fluorescent light and occupancy sensor]](../images/hatcher_hall_lites356x364.jpg)
Content modified: August, 2009
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