Sustainable Stanford interns began installing programmable timers on equipment across campus to reduce the university’s plug load energy use. More than 50 timers were installed during the first month of the program rollout, resulting in a combined cost savings of over $1,000 each year. Subsequently, 148 more timers were installed during the program’s first year, contributing to $4,500 in cost savings for the campus each year.

The equipment timer installation program was offered in conjunction with the annual Cardinal Green Buildings campaign, which raises awareness around building energy efficiency. Staff members who received timers for their equipment were educated on the installation and its benefits, and were asked to pledge to maintain proper operation of the timers over time.