In line with Washington University in St. Louis’s sustainability goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, the University adopted changes to thermostatic setpoints in offices and classrooms on the Danforth Campus. Beyond reducing our carbon footprint, these changes will also improve occupant comfort and reduce operating costs by an estimated $200,000 to $300,000 annually.
The policy is based on ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) research and feedback from members of the WashU community, particularly those of Hillman Hall where this policy was piloted in 2016. These thermostatic changes will also be implemented in new buildings currently being constructed on campus.
To learn more specifics about the new policy, including background information, implementation, and FAQs, visit https://facilities.wustl.edu/maintenance/building-controls/danforth-campus-temperature-setpoint-policy/
The Source also featured an article on the new policy: