As energy costs continue to rise, HYS and its three centers are finding new ways to conserve energy, and, in the process, save money that can be used for student programs and services as well as staff salary increases and benefits.

All three centers have completed their federally mandated energy conservation plans, which outlines how they will cut energy consumption. As part of those plans, all three centers are converting fluorescent light fixtures from the older T-12 fixtures to T-8 fixtures that use up to 50 percent less electricity. Centers also are converting, where possible, from incandescent light bulbs to the compact fluorescent bulbs. All centers also have plans to install motion sensors in lieu of switches wherever practical, so that lights are not accidentally left on.

The Building Automation Software systems that monitor and control the indoor building environment in buildings at each of the centers also are effective tools to save energy. These programs automatically maintain the desired temperature in the building, but also can be programmed to allow temperatures to drop or rise when the building is not occupied, such as during nights, weekends and over holiday breaks, thus saving on heating and cooling costs. In most cases, the buildings are divided into different zones, so a different temperature can be set for different sections of the building, depending on use. Whitney M. Young Job Corps Center currently has four BAS-controlled systems, North Texas has seven, and MCDC has one.

HYS also is pursuing the use of alternative energy/renewable energy vehicles, such as rechargeable electric golf carts and Cushman vehicles, to reduce and/or replace gas and diesel vehicles used on center. These electric vehicles are ideal for on-center use by departments such as housekeeping, maintenance and warehousing. NTJCC already has eliminated six gas/diesel vehicles from its fleet, replacing them with electric golf carts. HYS is actively pursuing the acquisition of other electric vehicles through the government equipment surplus program.

Jim Justis, HYS facilities support manager, noted that regularly performed maintenance and repair of facilities and equipment also can produce huge savings. While maintenance departments are replacing older equipment with high efficiency models, individuals at each of the centers also can do their part to conserve energy. Simple things like reporting leaky faucets, eliminating use of individual fans and heaters and turning off lights and electrical devices add up.

HYS also is committed to the federal Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program that supports environmentally responsible building and renovating. Three HYS corporate staff members are working toward LEED Accredited Professional certification, and will serve as resources for all three centers as they tackle renovation projects and new construction.

Energy conservation, to be successful, requires awareness and effort. But as energy costs, skyrocket, centers can’t afford to be complacent. “Every dollar diverted for energy is a dollar that can’t be used for students and staff,” Justis said. And that simple financial fact makes energy conservation everyone’s business.