In 2008, The University of New Mexico implemented a new energy conservation initiative throughout campus to reduce utility consumption. Lobo Energy, Incorporated (LEI) was founded with three main tasks: conduct level 1 and 2 energy audits, the continuous commissioning of HVAC equipment and data measures, and implementing a behavior modification strategy for students, faculty, and staff. Through Lobo Energy’s work, UNM has successfully completed many upgrade projects and has provided for a more sustainable and affordable production of energy on campus. LEI is also integral in helping UNM inventory greenhouse gas emissions.

Facilities Management’s Engineering & Energy Services (E&ES) department is responsible for updating UNM campuses with efficient building technologies, building commissioning, and managing automated controls. As part of the energy services focus, existing buildings are recommissioned to optimize building performance and energy conservation.

Over 90 percent of UNM buildings on all campuses have Building Automation Controls (BAS), which can be managed for energy efficiency. In addition, UNM has instituted occupancy-based controls for both HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and lighting in design and construction projects, so lights can be turned off and dampers closed automatically when spaces are unoccupied. Since 2011, UNM has upgraded nearly all of its exterior lighting to LED and now only installs LED lighting.

Cogeneration is an energy-efficient way of producing electricity through utilization of waste heat to lower greenhouse gas and air pollution emissions. Find out more here.