Climate and Energy

Michigan Tech is committed to continuous reduction of our carbon footprint and energy use. We will achieve this through a three-pronged approach: improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings, minimizing the energy demand in any new construction or major remodeling projects, and greening the sources of our energy through increasing renewable energy production and contracting for fiscally-responsible low-carbon energy sources.

In 2023, Michigan Tech launched the Evergreen Energy Fund to tackle projects that improve energy efficiency in our buildings. Example projects include installing LED lighting and controls, improving insulation, and updating HVAC systems. A portion of measured cost savings resulting from these projects will return to the fund to support future projects. This “revolving” fund will lead to substantial cost savings and greenhouse gas emissions reductions: we anticipate reducing our carbon footprint by 8% and our annual utilities bill by 13% by 2035, resulting in over $5M in cumulative utility costs savings at current prices.

In the first year of the Evergreen Energy Revolving Fund, $150,000 in campus energy efficiency investments yielded $56,000 in utility rebates, an average ROI of two years, and a total lifetime utility savings of nearly $400,000. These projects also reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 466 tons annually, equivalent to roughly 60 US homes.

Find more information on MTU's Energy Management Strategies below:

• Facilities Energy Management
• Campus Carbon Footprint