Campus Carbon Footprint

As a charter signatory of the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, Luther is obligated to measure its campus carbon footprint. This footprint is produced via direct emissions of greenhouse gases associated with combustion of fossil fuels for heating and transportation, indirect emissions associated with electricity purchases and finally other emissions related to solid waste, refrigerants, land use management, air travel, etc.

Energy Audit and Efficiency Upgrades

In 2004 Luther College signed a PerformanceEdge energy services contract with our electric utility, Alliant Energy. Luther invested $1.5 million in various energy efficiency initiatives that had an average estimated pay-back period of seven years. After a preliminary audit of 17 campus buildings, several potential projects with significant savings were identified and the best selected.

Geothermal

In 1999 Luther built Baker Village, a 33,000-square-foot, two-story student-housing complex using geothermal technology. Luther also chose a high-efficiency geothermal energy system to heat and cool the Center for the Arts (CFA). While the geothermal system are initially more expensive to install, the added investment will be paid back in energy savings in less than five years.

Bio-diesel

On each of Luther's diesel fleet vehicles, there is a decal stating biodiesel transforms "Refuse into Resource." This phrase sums up the purpose of our biodiesel program. For over three years Luther has been converting used fryer oil to fuel for some of our grounds equipment.

Green Buildings

As a result of signing the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), Luther has committed to all new campus construction being built to at least the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED silver standard or equivalent.  The college's recently completed Sampson Hoffland Laboratories received a LEED gold certification in recognition of the environmentally friendly design and construction features of this project. 

Energy Evolution

February 2008 was Energy Evolution, a month-long energy awareness and conservation campaign. This project was a collaboration between ECO, Luther’s student environmental group, and the Sustainability Initiative.

During the month there were a variety of activities and educational events. Most notable was a campuswide competition among residence halls, providing prizes to floors that used energy most responsibly. Also during this month, 500 compact fluorescent bulbs were sold for $1 each to students, faculty, and staff.

The campaign seemed to be a success--during February 2008 there was a net 2 percent reduction in energy use from February 2007.