06/06/2022
By Lisa Rolfe

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is entering into its annual peak Demand Response season, anticipated from early June to late September. During this time, Demand Resources, like power plants and other power supply generators, are competitive assets that help meet New England’s electricity needs. By reducing end-user consumption, Demand Resources can help ensure enough electricity is available to maintain grid reliability in a cost-effective and sustainable manner.

UMass Lowell is one of the largest users of electricity in the region. As a large user, utility companies look to UMass Lowell as a leader to cut energy use when the electricity grid's systems need help maintaining supply. These events, known as Demand Response events, typically occur when electricity is in high demand within the region, usually in the height of summer, on very hot days when everyone has their air conditioners running. When large users like UMass Lowell cut their electricity use, they help prevent local power outages and ensure reliable electricity service for all.

Occasionally, utility companies will test how responsive large users can be to these demand requests. These are called Demand Response Audits and may occur in early summer and winter. Performing well during these test events can generate significant electricity savings for the university and promote community sustainability.

If time allows, an e-mail notification is sent to confirm when the Campus Community needs to respond to Demand Response events to help conserve energy and alleviate grid electrical demand.

When responding to a regional high-energy demand event, or when you leave for the weekend, you are requested to please:

  • Turn off and unplug all non-vital or unused electric equipment such as copiers, coffee pots, personal fans, lab equipment, radios and so forth.
  • Shut off unused printers, plotters, monitors, personal computers and other non-critical equipment.
  • Turn off all manually switched lights in offices; unoccupied zones and reduce lighting where appropriate.
  • Shut down or raise the temperature setting of window A/C units or thermostats to 80 degrees F. (Facilities Management will make necessary adjustments to central cooling and mechanical systems.)
  • Close shades, blinds and windows to reduce the effects of summer’s heat in your space.
  • Make others in your department aware of this event.

To be successful, full participation of the campus community is necessary. Some spaces may undergo uncomfortable, but manageable, temperature changes.

We appreciate your upcoming participation and assistance during this season’s Demand Response events.