Going green pays off. For the 2009-10 academic year, Ithaca College saved $1.6 million in its utilities budget because of a decline in electrical consumption.
Carl Sgrecci, vice president of finance and administration, said electrical consumption has declined because of energy conservation measures across campus. Examples include installing energy-efficient lighting fixtures and upgrading heating and cooling units. The additions of the Peggy Ryan Williams Center and the Park Center for Business and Sustainable Enterprise — both Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified — also contributed to savings.
The college is recognized for saving money during tough economic times and for helping the environment.
But efforts to reduce utility costs can still be taken. When the college plans additional buildings or renovations, they should model them after the LEED-certified ones. Faculty, staff and students are also encouraged to reduce the amount of electricity they consume.
Small contributions, like turning off light switches  when not in a room, can result in the college having a greener and more fiscal-friendly purse.