Energy
UM's Energy Consumption
Like many other universities, energy used to power and heat our buildings is the largest contributing factor to our greenhouse gas emissions footprint, not counting purchased goods and services, which we currently do not include in our inventory. UM purchases electricity from NorthWestern Energy and we generate our own steam on campus by burning natural gas.
As of late spring 2024, UM will operate a combined heat and power (CHP) system to co-generate the bulk of our electricity and heat for our buildings, significantly reducing our scope 1 & 2 emissions and resulting in increased use of natural gas and decreased use of NorthWest Energy power. Getting off NWE power is one of the biggest moves to make in Montana right now, even if it does mean relying on natural gas for now.
Combined Heat & Power System
Kless Sustainability Fund
The Kless Sustainability Fund plays a pivotal role in energy efficiency on campus by allowing students to create and implement their own sustainable infrastructure projects on campus. This fund uses the $6 student sustainability fee to provide grant and loan money for proposals that provide energy-efficient or resource-conservation projects on campus. Previous projects include LED lighting in the UC, compost bins in the coffee shops, bear-safe garbage cans by the M hiking trail, and much more!
Learn more about the Kless Sustainability Fund and its energy-efficient innovations here!
Energy-saving Buildings
Ever since 2014, all new construction on campus has been at least Silver LEED-certified buildings. These energy-saving structures are at the forefront of the green building movement, seamlessly blending form and function to create spaces that prioritize both human well-being and the planet's health. From innovative insulation techniques to state-of-the-art energy-efficient systems, every aspect of LEED-certified buildings is meticulously crafted to minimize environmental impact and maximize energy savings.
Learn more about our energy-saving buildings on campus here!
