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Abstract
The Energy Task Force (ETF) at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) was established in 2005 and is comprised of staff, faculty, and students. The ETF serves in an advisory capacity to the UNH President and makes recommendations on the full range of issues related to climate change and energy.
The fiscal year 2017 was a watershed year for the UNH and our commitment to renewable energy. Our greenhouse gas footprint is down 51% from the 2001 baseline and our electricity is now 100% powered by renewables. The University’s greenhouse gas emissions based on the number of students and gross square feet of buildings on campus are significantly lower compared to other colleges and universities.
The achievement of AASHE STARS “Platinum” was an important sustainability benchmarks for UNH and the work of the ETF was vital in securing that ranking. Very high scores for renewable energy, greenhouse gas management and reduction, and low-carbon fleet vehicles were all vital components of the STARS profile, as were the coordination and planning , advocacy and outreach, and student and faculty engagement functions provided by the ETF.
Additional activities included new building and equipment investments are saving energy and money, reducing fossil fuel dependence; movement toward the future with electric vehicle purchases, policy and charging infrastructure; coordination with the Town of Durham to assess and enhance local climate resilience; completion of a new Utility Master Plan; and advocacy for smart, sustainable energy policy in New Hampshire.
Department
Sustainability Institute
Publication Date
10-2018
Publisher
UNH Sustainability Institute
Document Type
Report
Recommended Citation
UNH Energy Task Force, "UNH Energy Task Force: 2017 Annual Report" (2018). The Sustainability Institute Publications. 69.
https://scholars.unh.edu/sustainability/69