Faculty and Staff Asked to 'UnPlug for the Holidays'

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – On a typical December day the University of Arkansas burns about 12 megawatts of electrical energy.

On Dec. 25, when there is almost no one on campus, electricity consumption only drops to 9 megawatts.

Some of that power goes to keep lights on in the empty buildings for security reasons. But a significant amount of electricity is used up by electrical devices that are turned off but still plugged in.

The fact is that even the smallest electrical device consumes energy until it is unplugged.

This year the U of A Sustainability Council has launched the “UnPlug for the Holidays” campaign, urging all faculty and staff members to do more than turn off their electrical equipment – unplug it when they leave in December.

What equipment? Here’s an easy checklist:

• Computers, computer monitors, video monitors
• Power strips
• Chargers
• Printers, copiers 
• Space heaters
• Office lights
• Refrigerators, microwaves, coffee-makers, other small appliances

Quick reminder – empty that refrigerator before you unplug.

How much could the “UnPlug” campaign save? The estimate is as much as $37,000 for the 12 day holiday.

So, save energy and money while you relax on vacation: please, Unplug for the Holidays.