Energy on campus

Yale’s goals to reduce emissions have led to significant on-campus investments. 

Energy Supply

  • Continual investments in Yale’s campus power plants increase the efficiency and lower the emissions associated with our energy supply.
  • New renewable installations enable us to generate clean energy from solar.
  • The electricity we buy from the power grid gets cleaner each year, due to Connecticut’s Renewable Portfolio Standard.

Learn more about Yale’s energy generation on campus

Demand for Energy

Yale strives to make our buildings as efficient as possible and to help campus users and decision makers support wise energy-use. 

Since 2009 Yale has committed to LEED Green Building Gold Certification plus requiring robust energy criteria be met on all new construction and major renovations. Beginning in 2016, Energy Demand Intensity Design Targets have kept energy expectations on target throughout the design of a project. Enhanced Project Turnover Standards help to guarantee performance once buildings are operational.

In addition, Yale invests continually in existing buildings. Beginning in 2015, Yale has financed nearly 200 individual energy conservation measures across three campuses.

All members of the campus community contribute to Yale’s energy use, and everyone has a role to play in our campus evolution. There have been many changes brought forth by individuals and groups advocating for policy change, such as: 

  • Consolidation of buildings at one West Campus research institute
  • Adjustments in fume hood use in laboratory spaces
  • Temperature setpoint adjustments
  • Lighting upgrades and installation of more efficient windows and heating systems
  • Building occupancy schedules changed to better reflect building usage
  • Student campaigns

Use Yale’s Energy Usage tool to explore energy consumption on campus. Learn about ways you can Take Action to save energy.