The order from the government includes the heading "Order to implement energy-saving measures in public administration", but the description of the order itself is mainly about saving electricity. Savings shall start immediately and be reported monthly to the Swedish Energy Agency.

“In our current situation, it is important for all of us, whether employees or students, to help save energy in any way we can. We are now discussing potential general measures ­– some of which will also be positive in the long term – to save both energy and money,” says Anders Hagfeldt, Vice-Chancellor of Uppsala University.

The background, of course, is the high electricity prices and energy shortages expected in Europe this winter due to sanctions imposed in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Sweden is not expected to be affected worst, but by saving electricity and other energy here, we can help other regions in Europe.

All employees are therefore encouraged to save electricity and other energy. How you can help now:

  • Turn off the lights when leaving a room for more than a few minutes.
  • Turn off screens, speakers and lights during coffee/lunch breaks or meetings.
  • Switch off the whole office, e.g., computer, monitor, speakers, lighting, when leaving for the day.
  • Remove mobile-phone chargers, etc., from sockets when not in use.
  • Activate power-saving for computers and monitors.
  • Prioritise "travel-free" meetings whenever possible.
  • Defrost freezers and coordinate to use as few freezers as possible.

Comprehensive measures

In addition to employee efforts to save electricity and energy, discussions are ongoing regarding the University’s comprehensive efforts to save electricity. The vice-chancellor has instructed the Buildings Division to develop an action plan in collaboration with campus managers, the scientific units and property owners.

“We are discussing possible measures with the unions and the safety representatives in order not to endanger the working environment”, says Peter Elenfalk, Director of building and estate services at University Administration.

Some measures that may be implemented:

  • limited lighting hours, with lighting reductions at night
  • replacing lighting sources with LEDs for 40-60% energy savings
  • adjusting ventilation timing
  • slightly reduced indoor temperature.

“We can probably expect it to be a bit cooler on our premises this winter, so keeping a warm sweater at work is a good idea," says Peter Elenfalk. “Please note that installation of space heaters or electrical heating elements without Campus Management approval is prohibited, as they pose a fire hazard and increase energy consumption.”

Energy savings during research

In addition to the above, energy savings are also being discussed in research activities.

“In addition to more general measures on our properties and employee efforts, we must also consider energy-saving opportunities in our research activities. How can we save energy without compromising research? It would be great if the research groups themselves could consider this question and contact their campus manager or the Buildings Division to discuss it further," says Peter Elenfalk.