#EnergizeGU
Energy is at the heart of everything we do–it heats and cools our buildings, lights our homes, gets us where we need to go, and so much more. However, energy comes with a financial and environmental cost. Increasing Georgetown’s energy efficiency means we reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs, while still powering our buildings and vehicles.
As part of our Catholic, Jesuit mission to “Care for Our Common Home,” we have embraced energy-efficiency as a commitment and collaborative effort. Energy-efficiency opportunities are everywhere across our campuses, and everyone can play a role. From upgrading over 70,000 lightbulbs across campus with environmentally friendly LEDs to installing smart meters to track energy usage, we are working every day to build a more energy-efficient future for all Hoyas.
Every October, we celebrate our annual #EnergizeGU campaign to spotlight and promote energy efficiency across our campus.
Highlights from Fall 2024
Energy Olympics
Residence Halls competed to reduce electricity usage through the Energy Olympics, a competition designed to raise awareness about residential electricity consumption and promote sustainable energy practices. Prizes were awarded to the residences that achieved the greatest reductions in electricity consumption during the designated competition period.
EcoChallenge
Participants took part in the EcoChallenge, making a real impact at Georgetown and on the environment. They tracked their sustainable actions and earned points throughout October, with prizes awarded to the top 10 individuals with the highest scores!
Georgetown Energy Innovation Competition
The Georgetown Energy Innovation Competition invited students to present their energy-saving ideas for a chance to see them implemented on campus. The winning team earned the opportunity to travel to ENGIE’s headquarters in Paris!
Utility Plant Tours |
Offered tours of Georgetown’s Central Heating and Cooling plant to showcase the innovative systems that heat and cool the Hilltop Campus, providing a deeper understanding of the infrastructure behind campus operations.
#EnergizeGU Weekly Blogs
Read about the campus energy efficiency initiatives we’re championing, and the people who are pushing us toward our energy goals every single day. Plus, get tips for how to be more energy efficient.
Solar Plant Discussion
Explored Georgetown’s solar partnership with MN8 and learned about how the university sources its energy and the role of solar power in its sustainability efforts.
Energy Instagram Trivia
Posted a weekly clue on the Office of Sustainability Instagram, challenging students to answer for a chance to win Starbucks vouchers and reusable bottles, courtesy of Hoya Hospitality.
Red Square Tabling
Hosted an #EnergizeGU table at the Farmers Market, offering energy-saving tips, updating Energy Olympics standings, and distributing prizes to #EnergizeGU competition winners.
Energy Forum
Toward a More Sustainable Future: Campus Energy & Sustainability Forum: Hosted a dynamic panel discussion in a quick-fire format, with panelists responding to prompts and engaging in a lively Q&A session. Participants explored on-campus energy efficiency measures and gained insight into the importance of their energy behavior.