After switching to a 4.5-day work week and implementing additional energy and utility conservation measures, ULM avoided over $140,000 in energy costs between Jan. 2, 2006 and March 31, 2006.

According to Chris Ringo, assistant director of the Physical Plant, the Physical Plant's aggressive approach to energy conservation (including the new work week) includes:

• Programming computerized heating and air conditioning in buildings in accordance with scheduled hours of operation, and consolidating space to prevent unnecessary heating or cooling
  
  
• Installing updated energy management equipment
  
  
• Closely monitoring boiler and chiller water temperature settings, discharge air temperatures, and outside air dampers in all buildings
  
  

During the next several weeks, the Physical Plant staff will continue to investigate and identify additional energy conservation methods and cost-saving opportunities for future implementation, Ringo said.