2010
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Virginia Commonwealth University
Climate Action Plan
Technical Basis
May 19, 2010
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Climate Action Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS
List of Figures .................................................................................................................................... 3
List of Tables...................................................................................................................................... 3
List of Appendices.............................................................................................................................. 4
Glossary of Selected Terms and Acronyms ....................................................................................... 5
Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................. 7
Acknowledgements............................................................................................................................... 9
1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 12
1.1 Institutional Background: Virginia Commonwealth University .......................................... 12
1.2 Science Background: Climate Change Impact..................................................................... 13
1.3 Policy Background: Evolving Climate Change Policy and Legislation ............................. 13
1.4 Background: The ACUPCC and VCU ................................................................................ 14
1.5 Overall Approach: Development of the CAP within the ACUPCC Framework.................. 15
1.6 Aligning the CAP with VCU’s Future: University Planning Initiatives ............................. 16
1.6.1 VCU Strategic Plan ...................................................................................................... 16
1.6.2 VCU Master Site Plan .................................................................................................. 17
1.6.3 VCU Sustainability Committee.................................................................................... 18
2. Base Case..................................................................................................................................... 20
2.1 Baseline Year FY 2008 ......................................................................................................... 20
2.2 Forecasting Emissions through 2050................................................................................... 22
2.3 External Goals...................................................................................................................... 25
3. Identification of GHG Emissions Reduction Projects......................................................... 29
3.1. Background .......................................................................................................................... 29
3.2. Behavior Survey ................................................................................................................... 29
3.2.1 Faculty and Staff Response .......................................................................................... 29
3.2.2 Student Response ......................................................................................................... 31
3.3. Campus Survey ..................................................................................................................... 32
3.3.1 Buildings and Plants..................................................................................................... 32
3.3.2 Renewable Energy........................................................................................................ 35
3.3.3 Development, Transportation, Environment, and Community .................................... 36
3.4. Waste Minimization.............................................................................................................. 45
3.5. Benchmarking Study............................................................................................................. 46
3.6. Offsets................................................................................................................................... 47
4. Prioritization of GHG Emission Reduction Projects .......................................................... 53
4.1. Background .......................................................................................................................... 53
4.2. Cost-benefit Analysis............................................................................................................ 53
4.2.1 Behavior Change .......................................................................................................... 53
4.2.2 Buildings and Plants..................................................................................................... 57
4.2.3 Renewable Energy........................................................................................................ 62
4.2.4 Development, Transportation, Environment, and Community .................................... 78
4.2.5 Waste Minimization ..................................................................................................... 83
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4.2.6 Offsets .......................................................................................................................... 85
4.3. Summary............................................................................................................................... 87
5. Education, Research, and Outreach ......................................................................................... 90
5.1 Background .......................................................................................................................... 90
5.2 Educational Offerings .......................................................................................................... 90
5.3 Training and Communication .............................................................................................. 93
5.3.1 Training ........................................................................................................................ 93
5.3.2 Communication ............................................................................................................ 94
5.4 Opportunities........................................................................................................................ 95
6. Results Tracking and Financing ........................................................................................... 97
6.1. CAP Programmatic Oversight ............................................................................................. 97
6.2. Financing.......................................................................................................................... 98
6.2.1 Energy Savings Performance Contracts ....................................................................... 98
6.2.2 Revolving Fund ............................................................................................................ 99
6.2.3 Green Fees Program ................................................................................................... 100
7. References ............................................................................................................................. 101
8.
Executive Summary Addendum…………………………………………………………...92
List of Figures
Figure 2.1
Figure 2.2
Figure 2.3
Figure 2.4
Figure 2.5
Figure 4.1
Figure 4.2
Figure 4.3
Baseline (FY2008) GHG Emissions by Source
GHG Emission Intensity (GSF and FTE basis) for FY2003-09
GHG Emissions Forecasts through 2050
Sensitivity Analysis of GHG Emissions Forecasts through 2050
Comparison of Business-As-Usual GHG Emissions against External Goals
VCU Stabilization Wedge Diagram
Project Summary with Emissions Reduction Potential and Simple Payback
Project Summary with Emissions Reduction Potential and Unspecified Payback
List of Tables
Table 2.1
Table 2.2
Table 2.3
Table 2.4
Table 2.5
Table 3.1.
Table 4.1
Table 4.2
Table 4.3
Table 4.4
Table 4.5
Table 4.6
GHG Emissions and Intensities by Source (FY2003-09)
GHG Emissions Intensity and Confidence Interval by Emissions Source (FY2003-09)
Projections for GHG Emissions Intensity Metrics
Interim and Long-Term Climate Action Goals
Estimated Annual Resource Usage Reductions for Attainment of External Goals
Listing of Preferred Offset Providers Which Sell to Businesses
GHG Emissions Reduction Projects Related to Behavior Change
GHG Emission Reduction Projects Related to Buildings and Plants
GHG Emission Reduction Projects Related to Renewable Energy
GHG Emission Reduction Projects Related to Development, Transportation,
Environment, and Community
GHG Emissions Reduction Projects Related to Waste Minimization
GHG Emissions Reduction Projects Related to Purchased Offsets
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List of Appendices
Appendix A
Appendix B
Appendix C
Appendix D
Appendix E
Appendix F
Appendix G
Appendix H
Appendix I
City and State Planning
VCU Sustainability Committee Member List
VCU Campus Survey Field Notes – Buildings and Plants
VCU Campus Survey Field Notes – Renewable Energy
VCU Campus Survey Field Notes – Development, Transportation, Environment, and
Community
Behavior Change Survey Results
Benchmarking Study Survey Results
Behavior Change Matrix
Funding Sources
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Glossary of Selected Terms and Acronyms
Air Handling Unit (AHU) - An air handler, or air handling unit is a device used to condition and
circulate air as part of a heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system.
Business As Usual (BAU) – One possible scenario often used to generate climate change predictions
and evaluate potential impacts; the “business as usual” scenario implies that no actions specifically
directed at limiting greenhouse emissions will be taken by governments, companies, or individuals.
Climate Action Plan (CAP) – long-range roadmap for achieving climate neutrality
Domestic Hot Water (DHW) – Water used, in any type of building, for domestic purposes,
principally drinking, food preparation, sanitation and personal hygiene (but not including space
heating, swimming pool heating, or use for processes such as commercial food preparation or clothes
washing).
Direct Digital Controls (DDC) - The application of microprocessor technology to building
environmental controls. DDC systems make it possible to control heating and cooling functions with
software that takes into account a wide range of variables, thereby achieving greater efficiency.
Fiscal Year (FY) – July 1 of a given year to June 30 of the following year
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) - FTE is a way to designate or estimate full-time status of student
enrollment in various contexts. With respect to enrollment, an FTE of 1.0 indicates full-time status,
while 0.5 indicates half-time status.
Greenhouse Gas (GHG) - Greenhouse gases are gases in an atmosphere that absorb and emit
radiation within the thermal infrared range. Greenhouse gases considered in this Plan include carbon
dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
GRTC – Greater Richmond Transit Company
Gross Square Footage (GSF) – GSF is the total sum of the floorspace over every level of a building.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) - Controls the ambient environment
(temperature, humidity, air flow, and air filtering) of a building and must be planned for and operated
along with other data center components such as computing hardware, cabling, data storage, fire
protection, physical security systems, and power.
KPI – Key Performance Indicator
Kilowatt-hour (kWh) - A unit of energy commonly used on fuel bills. One kWh would power a
device that consumes a kilowatt of power for an hour or a 100 watt lightbulb for 10 hours, etc.
Low Emissivity (Low E) Glass – In contrast to High E Glass, Low E Glass reflects radiated heat by
means of a special coating on the inner surface, therefore further reducing heat loss through doubleglazed windows
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Low NOx Burner - a type of burner that is typically used in utility boilers to produce steam and
electricity with reduced nitrogen oxides emissions from the combustion process.
MTCO2E – metric ton carbon dioxide equivalent
Photovoltaic (PV) - PV technology produces electricity directly from sunlight, and is used in solar
electric panels. Refined crystalline silicon is the main material in a PV panel.
Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) - Also known as green tags, green energy certificates, or
tradable renewable certificates, RECs represent the technology and environmental attributes of
electricity generated from renewable sources. Renewable energy certificates are usually sold in 1
megawatt-hour (MWh) units. A certificate can be sold separately from the MWh of generic electricity
it is associated with. This flexibility enables customers to offset a percentage of their annual
electricity use with certificates generated elsewhere.
T8 or T12 – A fluorescent lamp with an 8/8th- or 12/8th-inch tube diameter, respectively.
Variable Air Volume (VAV) - An HVAC system strategy through which the volume of air ` to
conditioned spaces is varied as a function of ventilating needs, energy needs, or both.
Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) - A specific type of adjustable-speed drive that controls the
rotational speed of an alternating current (AC) electric motor by controlling the frequency of the
electrical power supplied to the motor. VFDs are also known as adjustable-frequency drives (AFD),
variable-speed drives (VSD), AC drives, or inverter drives.
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Executive Summary
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public research university located in Richmond,
Virginia. VCU is a 143-acre urban campus of approximately 32,000 students and about 10,500
faculty and staff.
“The university is dedicated to educating full-time and part-time students of all ages and
backgrounds in an atmosphere of free inquiry and scholarship so they may realize their full
potential as informed, productive citizens with a lifelong commitment to learning and service.”
In support of the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC),
VCU commits to be carbon neutral (net zero) by 2050. In the fiscal year (FY) 2008 baseline year,
VCU’s GHG emissions were 137,843 metric tons carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2E). After
accounting for institutional growth, VCU’s gross emissions are expected to increase to 169,744
MTCO2E by 2030 and remain there through mid-century under business-as-usual scenarios.
As an interim goal to carbon neutrality, VCU set a target of reducing its GHG emissions to 30%
below business-as-usual by 2025 in accordance with the Virginia Energy Plan (2007).
•
For VCU, this would correspond to an emissions target of 114,484 MTCO2E by 2025, or
approximately 50,000 MTCO2E below business-as-usual emissions. This translates to an
annual reduction of 3,000 to 4,000 MTCO2E over a fifteen year period.
VCU is committed to meeting this reduction target for state government institutions. In addition,
VCU intends to achieve net zero GHG emissions by, or as soon after 2050 as technology and
financial considerations will allow. VCU will utilize a portfolio of expected strategies to mitigate
these emissions. These strategies can be broadly divided into three categories:
(i) Demand Side Management
a. behavior change (as it applies to energy, water, waste, recycling/food services, and
transportation/parking initiatives), which collectively account for up to half of VCU’s
2025 emissions reduction target;
b. building efficiency; LEED for new construction; transportation alternatives; and
waste minimization.
(ii) Renewable Energy – biomass; photovoltaics; and solar thermal.
(iii) Offsets – sequestration; purchased renewable energy credits (RECs); and carbon offsets for
air travel.
VCU has begun incorporating sustainability into the curriculum through a range of course offerings
related to the interdependence of humans and the environment, environmental management, and
sustainable development. VCU will further establish key performance indicators for raising
awareness among students and staff of VCU’s sustainability strategy. This will be supported by VCU
Goes Green representatives, individuals responsible for coordination of sustainability activities within
each department or unit at VCU.
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VCU has convened the VCU Sustainability Committee that oversees the implementation of the VCU
Climate Action Plan, and is responsible for:
Establishing an emissions reduction goal for the year
Selecting emissions reductions projects consistent with the goal
Recommending funding strategies for the selected projects
Evaluating and communicating project performance
Recommending corrective action as needed to keep VCU on track with long-term CAP goals
•
•
•
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•
VCU will utilize available funding sources for implementing emissions reduction projects, such as the
following:
•
•
Public-Private Education and Infrastructure Act grants
Capital project fund
•
•
Revolving Loan Funds
Green Fees
These recommendations will be updated within five years as additional analyses are completed.
VCU will also track progress toward goals through biennial public updates to its GHG emissions
inventory.
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Acknowledgements
VCU would like to acknowledge those individuals and organizations that have contributed to the
development of this Action Plan, including VCU President Dr. Michael Rao and former President Dr.
Eugene Trani who have provided the leadership to make visionary commitments on behalf of the
University. On February 5, 2010, Dr. Rao re-signed the ACUPCC as a statement of commitment to
the original commitment signed by Dr. Trani.
VCU also acknowledges O’Brien & Gere, Richmond BySolar, and HGOR for assisting with the
engineering and scientific analysis in the development of this Plan.
VCU Sustainability Committee
Committee Co-Chairs:
Dr. Beverly Warren, Interim Provost & VP for Academic Affairs
Mr. John M. Bennett, Senior VP for Finance & Administration
Climate Action Plan Subcommittee
Mr. Carl Beckelheimer, Chair
Mr. Roberto Celis
Mr. Alex French
Mr. Jacek Ghosh
Dr. Meghan Gough
Dr. Mort Gulak
Ms. Noel Knille
Ms. Allison Patel
Mr. Carl Purdin
Ms. Katharine S. Rosemond
Ms. Jordan Starbuck
Mr. Russell Uzzle
Administration Subcommittee
Mr. Ed Bennett, Chair
Mr. Brandon Dube
Ms. Morgan Duke
Mr. Jacek Ghosh
Mr. Ed Gibbs
Mr. Paul Jez
Ms. Barbara Judy
Mr. Samuel Kennedy
Ms. Betty Lowther
Mr. Brian Ohlinger
Ms. Roxanne Razo
Dr. Reuban Rodriquez
Ms. Jordan Starbuck
Mr. Mark Willis
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Waste, Foodservice & Transportation Subcommittee
Mr. Tom Diehl, Co-chair
Ms. Rachel Elves
Mr. Jacek Ghosh
Dr. Jeffrey A. Green
Mr. Steve Heinitz
Mr. Jerry Helton
Ms. Tamara Highsmith, Co-chair
Ms. Margaret Kelland
Ms. Pamela Mason
Ms. Jordan Starbuck
Ms. Andrea Steegmayer
Mr. Brantley Tyndall
Mr. Paul Walker
Mr. Brian Walters
Dr. Susanna Wu-Pong
Education, Research & Community Engagement Subcommittee
Mr. Loan Chin
Dr. Clifford Fox
Mr. Jacek Ghosh
Dr. Catherine Howard
Dr. Jason Levy
Dr. Jacqueline McDonnough, Chair
Mr. Michael Porter
Ms. Amanda Schutt
Ms. Jordan Starbuck
Mr. Camden Whitehead
Former Committee Members
Dr. Helen Ruth Aspaas
Ms. Melissa Celik
Dr. Stephen D. Gottfredson
Mr. Antoine Hugues
Dr. Rachel Maddux
Ms. Melissa Philips (student)
Ms. Hilary Stempel (student)
VCU would like to acknowledge those who conducted survey data collection and analysis:
Ms. Elle Chang, Vice President, GreenUnity4VCU
Mr. Will Isenberg, President, GreenUnity4VCU
Ms. Kelli Parmley, Assistant Vice Provost for the Center for Institutional Effectiveness
Dr. Reuben Rodriquez, Associate Vice Provost, Dean of Student Affairs
Dr. Laura Siminoff, Chair, Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Medicine
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Finally, VCU would like to acknowledge the following student organizations:
Campus Sustainability Interns
GreenUnity4VCU
MCV Campus Student Government Association
Monroe Park Campus Student Government Association
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1.
Introduction
1.1
Institutional Background: Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public research university located in Richmond,
Virginia. Founded in 1838 as the medical department of Hampden-Sydney College, VCU became the
Medical College of Virginia (MCV) in 1854. In 1968, the General Assembly merged MCV with the
Richmond Professional Institute, founded in 1917, to create Virginia Commonwealth University.
VCU is the second largest university in Virginia, and the largest employer in the City of Richmond,
thus serving as an important resource for the city and the Commonwealth of Virginia.
VCU enrolls more than 32,000 undergraduate, graduate
and first-professional students in a wide range of 208
certificate and degree programs. The May 2009
graduating class represented 41 countries and 37 of the
50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
VCU’s main campuses include Monroe Park Campus
and MCV Campus, which encompass 90.6 and 52.4
acres, respectively. Additional campuses and satellite
properties include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
VCU Mission Statement
“The university is dedicated to
educating full-time and part-time
students of all ages and backgrounds in
an atmosphere of free inquiry and
scholarship so they may realize their
full potential as informed, productive
citizens with a lifelong commitment to
learning and service.”
VCU Inger and Walter Rice Center for
Environmental Life Sciences, which is a field research facility;
VCU Medical Center at Stony Point;
VCU School of the Arts in Qatar;
Inova Fairfax Hospital;
Hayes E. Willis Center of South Richmond;
Massey Cancer Center at Hanover Medical Park;
VCU School of Social Work in Northern Virginia;
Riverside Regional, Southside Regional and St. Francis Medical Centers; and,
Chesterfield, Fairfax and Front Royal Family Practice Centers.
This Climate Action Plan includes all campuses and satellite locations where the university has
operational control and can enforce a change in policy. Therefore, the additional campuses and
satellite locations, including the 342 acres located along the James River at the VCU Rice Center, are
included and will be mentioned as appropriate in graphs, tables, or discussion. This Plan does not
include the VCU Health System buildings. All references to ‘University buildings’ refer to those
within the organizational boundary of the inventory only.
VCU occupies 196 buildings. Of these buildings, 40 were built prior to 1900 and 54 are designated
as historic or lie within a historic district. Monroe Park Campus, which is located within Richmond’s
Fan District, and the MCV Campus, which is located adjacent to the State Capitol, consist of
approximately 6.9 million square feet (FY 2009) of building space. VCU’s campuses have been in a
state of transformation since 1990, with a 29% increase in gross square footage (GSF) of the
campuses and a corresponding growth of 28% in full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment over the same
period leading up to development of the 2004 Master Site Plan. There are multiple new buildings,
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additions and renovation projects planned, completed and currently underway, with many other areas
identified for future consideration.
1.2
Science Background: Climate Change Impact
In its Fourth Assessment Report released in 2007, the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC) stated that:
•
•
•
Warming of the climate system is “unequivocal” based on observations of temperatures, sea
levels, and snow melts;
Global concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHG) in 2005 far exceeded the natural range
observed over the last 650,000 years; and
Most of the observed increase in global average temperatures since the mid-20th century is
“very likely” (i.e., greater than 90% confidence) due to the observed increase in
anthropogenic or human-caused GHG concentrations.
Climate change will cause impacts on water resources, food production, ecosystems, weather
patterns and human health in all parts of the world, including:
•
•
•
•
•
Decreased water availability and increasing drought in mid-latitudes and semi-arid low
latitudes;
Decreased cereal productivity at low latitudes;
Risk of extinction of global plant and animal species (up to 30% or even more depending on
scenario);
Increased warm spells, heat waves and heavy precipitation events; and
Increased morbidity and mortality from changing weather patterns, changed disease vector
distributions, and malnutrition.
Further, these effects will be felt over several decades due to the long atmospheric life spans of
greenhouse gases.
1.3
Policy Background: Evolving Climate Change Policy and Legislation
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) coordinates international
efforts to combat climate change. The Kyoto Protocol to the UNFCCC (1997) called on developed
countries to reduce their total GHG emissions in the 2008 to 2012 commitment period by an average
of 5% versus a 1990 baseline. Over the past decade, the European Union has undertaken high-profile
steps to meet their Kyoto targets, including the establishment of the European Union Emissions
Trading Scheme (EU ETS, 2007).
While the United States has not participated in the Kyoto Protocol commitments, U.S. federal policy
on climate change has developed rapidly in recent months as evidenced by the following:
•
February 12, 2009: The American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act 2009 allocates over $36 billion
for energy efficiency, conservation and renewable
programs.
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There is a growing national
policy for climate change action.
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March 10, 2009: The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA releases a
proposed rule for mandatory GHG reporting that would account for 85 - 90% of U.S. GHG
emissions.
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March 31, 2009: A proposed bill establishing a cap-and-trade system with mandatory GHG
reduction targets is circulated among lawmakers (American Clean Energy and Security Act
of 2009).
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April 17, 2009: The USEPA releases an endangerment finding stating that GHGs endanger
human health and welfare; this was a follow-up to a 2007 U.S. Supreme Court ruling stating
that carbon dioxide (CO2) was a pollutant and as such was subject to regulation by the
USEPA.
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May 19, 2009: President Obama announces new vehicle fuel economy standards that
harmonize states and the federal legislation/standards.
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June 26, 2009: The American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 (ACESA) passes the
House of Representatives.
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June 30, 2009: USEPA grants waiver to the state of California to set its own, state-specific
GHG emissions limits from cars.
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September 22, 2009: USEPA finalizes GHG mandatory reporting rule.
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December 7, 2009: USEPA finalizes endangerment finding that GHGs endanger human
health and welfare.
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January 27, 2010: U .S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires that public
companies must disclose climate-related “material impacts” on their businesses as part of
their existing disclosure rules.
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May 12, 2010: The Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act (S.1733), effectively an
updated version of ACESA, is introduced for debate in the Senate.
While numerous high profile federal environmental policies are emerging from the Obama
Administration, voluntary and mandatory programs have been on-going for some time at the local,
state, and regional levels. Prominent among these are:
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1.4
USEPA Climate Leaders
The Climate Registry
Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)
California’s Global Warming Solutions Act (Assembly Bill 32)
U.S. Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement
American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC)
Background: The ACUPCC and VCU
The ACUPCC is an effort to make the U.S. Higher Education sector more sustainable, obtaining
institutional commitments to “reduce and ultimately neutralize greenhouse gas emissions on campus”
and “accelerate the research and educational efforts of higher education to equip society to restabilize the earth’s climate” (ACUPCC, 2007).
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Climate change poses a fundamental challenge to the way individuals and organizations use energy
and resources. The ACUPCC presents an opportunity to lead by example, educating the next
generation of national, business and media leaders on how to address this challenge.
ACUPCC Commitment
“We believe colleges and universities must
exercise leadership in their communities
and throughout society by modeling ways to
minimize global warming emissions, and by
providing the knowledge and the educated
graduates to achieve climate neutrality.”
Over 650 colleges and universities have committed to being carbon neutral at some point in the
future. In April 2008, VCU became a signatory of the ACUPCC. Becoming a signatory to the
ACUPCC requires implementation of the following:
•
Establishing an institutional structure to oversee the school’s ACUPCC: VCU has developed
a comprehensive structure designed to engage all areas of the VCU community in
collaboration and consensus building, including the VCU Sustainability Committee.
•
Completing a GHG emissions inventory within one year: VCU has prepared a baseline GHG
inventory and publicly posted it on the ACUPCC online reporting tool (AASHE, 2009).
•
Developing a climate neutrality action plan (CAP) – including a target date for climate
neutrality and interim progress milestones – within two years: The VCU Climate Action Plan
has been developed in accordance with the timeline.
•
Choosing at least two of seven action steps towards GHG reduction: VCU immediately
adopted four tangible actions: 1) Establish a policy that all new campus construction will be
built to at least the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Silver standard or equivalent; 2)
Adopt an energy-efficient appliance purchasing policy requiring purchase of ENERGY STAR
certified products in all areas for which such ratings exist; 3) Encourage use of and provide
access to public transportation for all faculty, staff, students and visitors at the institution;
and, 4) Participate in the Waste Minimization component of the national RecycleMania
competition, and adopt 3 or more associated measures to reduce waste.
•
Implementing the work products of the CAP: See Section 6 of this report.
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Integrating sustainability into the educational curriculum: See Section 5 of this report.
•
Making the CAP, GHG inventory, and progress reports publicly available: VCU’s GHG
inventory and CAP have been made available on the Association for the Advancement of
Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) website http://www.aashe.org/ .
1.5
Overall Approach: Development of the CAP within the ACUPCC Framework
The requirements of the ACUPCC signatory letter include development of an institutional action plan
for becoming climate neutral (no net GHG emissions) by minimizing GHG emissions as much as
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possible through demand and supply side management and using carbon offsets or other measures to
mitigate the remaining emissions.
The institutional action plan has been developed within two years of signing the
ACUPCC and includes:
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1.6
A target date for achieving climate neutrality as soon as possible;
Interim targets for goals and actions that will lead to climate neutrality;
Actions to make climate neutrality and sustainability a part of the curriculum
and other educational experience for all students;
Actions to expand research or other efforts necessary to achieve climate
neutrality; and,
Mechanisms for tracking progress on goals and actions.
Aligning the CAP with VCU’s Future: University Planning Initiatives
Opportunities exist to align the goals and actions of the CAP with concurrent key initiatives driven by
internal and external programs. The directives of these programs are summarized within the
following plans and programs:
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VCU Strategic Plan
VCU Master Site Plan
VCU Sustainability Committee
City of Richmond Downtown Plan
City of Richmond Mayor’s Climate
Commitment
Virginia Energy Plan
Commonwealth of Virginia Executive Orders
Commonwealth of Virginia Climate Change
Action Plan.
It is my hope that sustainability becomes an
integral component of the academic,
administrative, clinical, operational and
research activity VCU engages in every
day. I would like to see sustainability
become ingrained in VCU’s DNA as a
matter of course.
-
Jacek Ghosh, VCU Director of
Sustainability
Many components of these existing initiatives lend support to VCU’s CAP or, in turn, can be
supported and enhanced by the CAP as summarized below. Descriptions of City of Richmond and
Commonwealth of Virginia initiatives are provided in Appendix A.
1.6.1
VCU Strategic Plan
In August 2004, former President Eugene P. Trani charged the interim provost and vice president for
academic affairs and the vice president for health sciences and chief executive officer of the VCU
Health System with co-chairing a new Strategic Planning Commission and with developing a vision
for VCU that corresponds with the time horizon envisioned for the University’s capital expansion:
2020. VCU 2020 Vision for Excellence provides a road map for VCU to continue to fulfill the
university’s mission as a leading urban research institution for the 21st century, while at the same
time allowing VCU the flexibility to embrace unforeseen opportunities that will undoubtedly present
themselves along the way.
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The strategic vision for VCU rests upon five themes:
•
•
•
•
•
Ensure and maintain the highest levels of
University efficiency, accountability and
infrastructure support required to achieve
our strategic vision.
Achieve national recognition as a learningcentered research university that embraces a
world-class student experience.
Assure continued international recognition
for our research, scholarship and creative
expression.
Achieve preeminence for our academic
medical center.
Maintain VCU as a model for universitycommunity partnerships.
Initiatives were developed to support
each theme of the strategic vision,
including –
 Addition of new graduate
programs.
 Encourage the development of
interdisciplinary programs.
 Engage in a master site planning
process that ensures that the current
and future physical plant supports
both the current research priorities
of the University and emerging
research opportunities.
The VCU Strategic Plan is the foundation
document for the Master Site Plan, which is
described in the following section.
1.6.2
VCU Master Site Plan
Development initiatives for the University are found in the VCU Master Site Plan and the VCU 2020
Master Site Plan Update, both developed in 2004, and the Six-Year Infrastructure Plan developed in
2007, which is a projection of capital outlay needs for the period of 2008 through 2014.
The Master Site Plan summarizes and coordinates planning and development and illustrates the
University’s planned growth and development through the year 2020. The plan focuses on VCU’s
two main campuses, Monroe Park Campus and MCV Campus. Among the guidelines of the
development for this urban university campus is the goal to develop buildings that meet LEED
criteria while recognizing and promoting the distinct character of downtown Richmond.
The plan fulfills three primary University
goals:
1. Provides a comprehensive document for
the Board of Visitors which articulates
the University’s vision for its campuses;
2. Provides program direction and physical
guidelines for future development of
campus structures and open spaces; and,
3. Continues
to
articulate
VCU’s
relationship
with
neighboring
communities by identifying districts and
areas of future consideration.
Broad Themes of the Master Site Plan
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
17
Impact of growth in student enrollment
Impact of changes in student profile
Impact of growth of on-campus housing
Impact of growth in funded research
Academic spaces on the Health Sciences
Campus
“Collegiate Community”-Student Engagement
Monroe Park (formerly known as the
Academic Campus)
Coordination of major initiatives
Strategic growth issues
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The Master Site Plan has been presented to
51 groups representing faculty, staff,
students, foundations, neighbors, civic
groups, and state and city representatives.
Minor refinements have been made based
on comments that were received and have
been addressed in the Master Site Plan
Update. Many of the planned development
projects laid out in the Master Site Plan
have been initiated and/or completed,
including an expansion of the School of
Engineering, as well as many other
renovation, demolition and addition
projects involving classrooms, housing,
athletic facilities, parking and open spaces.
1.6.3
VCU Sustainability Committee
The VCU Sustainability Committee has been instituted as part of the university’s commitment to the
ACUPCC that then-President Eugene Trani signed in April 2008. The mission of the Committee is to
draft the VCU Climate Action Plan by May 2010 in accordance with the ACUPCC.
The VCU Sustainability Committee consists of 47 members representing most constituencies of the
university community. Students, faculty and staff serve on the Committee that reports to the President
of the University. The VCU Sustainability Committee has four subcommittees.
•
Administration Subcommittee
•
Climate Action Plan Subcommittee
•
Education, Research and Community Engagement Subcommittee
•
Waste, Foodservice and Transportation Subcommittee
Appendix B contains a complete list of VCU Sustainability Committee members.
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VCU Statement of Sustainability
Sustainability is the goal of maintaining a good quality of life for those who presently
experience it, while expanding that quality of life to those who lack it; understanding
and respecting the needs of future generations and the limits of natural systems within
which quality human lives are necessarily embedded and dependent. Sustainability
includes, but is not limited to:
•
The recognition of threats to the climate system inherent within the continued
introduction of carbon into the atmosphere by human activity, especially
through carbon-based energy production and consumption, necessitating action
to reduce human carbon footprints, both at the individual, community and
institutional levels.
•
The identification and reduction of negative impacts from human activity upon
human health (e.g., air and water pollution, other exposures to hazardous
substances, both long-term and immediate, stress impacts, etc.).
•
The identification and reduction of negative impacts from human activity upon
ecosystem health (e.g., lost habitat, biodiversity, ecosystem function, etc.).
•
The recognition of the finite nature of our resource base; necessitating the
reduction, reuse and recycling of materials, the identification and development
of renewable resources, and increased efficiency in our use of all resources.
•
On-going dialogue among experts, lay-people, leaders and citizens for the
purpose of learning more about the nature of these challenges, both from a
technical and a human value-based perspective.
Adopted by VCU Sustainability Committee, July 22, 2009
As mentioned previously, the development and implementation of this CAP provides opportunities
for shaping existing internal and external initiatives. In turn, these initiatives provide guidance for the
priorities outlined in this CAP. In summary, this CAP has been developed in the context of
complementary objectives including:
•
•
•
•
VCU’s strategic academic vision
VCU’s sustainability vision
VCU’s and the City of Richmond’s master planning objectives
The Commonwealth of Virginia and the City of Richmond’s sustainability objectives.
These concurrent programs have the aim of making VCU a more vibrant, livable, and resourceful
community that makes efficient use of energy and resources.
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2.
Base Case
2.1
Baseline Year FY 2008
As part of its commitments under ACUPCC, VCU has prepared a baseline GHG inventory and
publicly posted it on the ACUPCC online reporting tool (AASHE, 2009). In the baseline year, total
gross emissions were 137,843 metric tons carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2E).
Figure 2.1 - Baseline (FY2008) GHG Emissions by Source
The primary emission sources were purchased electricity, stationary combustion, and commuting
(student and faculty/staff), collectively accounting for approximately 90% of total annual gross
emissions. As VCU progresses toward its long-term goal of achieving carbon neutrality, these three
sources will have to be prioritized in order to achieve meaningful overall GHG emissions reductions.
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Trends from FY 2003 to 2009
GHG data is currently available for VCU from FY2003 up to FY2009, including the baseline year
FY2008. The latter was chosen as the baseline year because data quality is highest for this year.
FY2003 total emissions were 13% below those in FY2008.
Table 2.1 - GHG Emissions and Intensities by Source (FY2003-09)
Scope
Scope 1
Emissions
(MTCO2E)
Scope 2
Emissions
(MTCO2E)
Scope 3
Emissions
(MTCO2E)
Source
FY2003
FY2004
FY 2005
FY 2006
FY 2007
FY 2008
FY 2009
22505
24132
22358
26736
29265
22766
26436
Mobile Sources
1285
1286
1286
1286
1286
1511
1511
Fugitive Sources
238
238
238
238
238
238
238
Process Sources
Total Gross
Emissions
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
24029
25657
23882
28261
30789
24516
28186
Purchased Electricity
Purchased
Steam/Chilled Water
Total Gross
Emissions
Faculty/ Staff
Commuting
56599
59497
63501
66364
60973
68354
66101
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
56599
59497
63501
66364
60973
68354
66101
14980
15042
15907
16352
16918
16918
16918
Student Commuting
7344
7510
7809
8108
8496
8496
7999
Air Travel
7276
7276
7276
7276
7276
8239
8195
Solid Waste
3171
3375
3706
3863
3789
3789
3690
Wastewater
27
27
27
27
27
27
27
744
744
744
744
744
744
1004
5598
5884
6280
6564
6030
6760
6538
39140
39858
41750
42934
43281
44974
44371
119768
125012
129132
137559
135043
137843
138657
5770366
5841230
6012556
6020126
6105605
6689763
6852795
24680
26168
27210
28254
29607
29607
27874
20.76
21.40
21.48
22.85
22.12
20.61
20.23
4.85
4.78
4.75
4.87
4.56
4.66
4.97
Stationary Sources
Paper Purchasing
Scope 1 – 3
Gross
Emissions
(MTCO2E)
T & D Losses
Total Gross
Emissions
Total Gross
Emissions
Gross Square
Footage (GSF)
Full-time Equivalent
Students (FTE)
Total Gross Emission
Intensity per 1000
GSF
Total Gross Emission
Intensity per FTE
Total gross emission intensity per FTE has remained fairly constant from FY2003 through FY2009
(between approximately 4.6 to 5.0 MTCO2E/FTE). Total gross emission intensity per 1000 GSF has
varied between approximately 20 to 23 MTCO2E/1000 from FY2003 through FY2009.
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Figure 2.2 - GHG Emission Intensity (GSF and FTE basis) for FY2003-09
For reference, average Scope 1-3 gross emission intensities for doctorate-granting universities are
8.33 MTCO2E/FTE and 20.59 MTCO2E/1000 GSF (ACUPCC Reporting System, 2009;
http://acupcc.aashe.org/). Therefore, on a per FTE basis, VCU’s emission intensity is about half that
of other doctorate-granting institutions, and on a GSF basis, VCU’s emission intensity is comparable
to that of other doctorate-granting institutions.
2.2
Forecasting Emissions through 2050
Scope 1-3 emission sources were placed into two categories, based on correlation with two emission
intensity metrics, building space (GSF) and population (FTE).
The average GHG emission intensity (GSF and FTE basis) during the FY 2003-2009 period was
calculated and combined with projected changes in GSF and FTE to forecast future GHG emissions.
•
•
FTE was forecast from 2011 through FY 2014 based on the VCU (2008) Projected
Headcount Enrollments. GSF is assumed to remain constant between 2010 and 2016 based
on VCU’s six year capital plan.
Projected FTE for 2030 is based on U.S. Census Bureau (2009) forecasts for Virginia, which
projects that population ages 18-24 will grow by 26.9% by 2030 relative to 2005.
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•
•
Projected GSF for 2030 is based on the 95% upper confidence limit on the average FTE/GSF
ratio over the period FY 2003 to FY 2008. This value (228.5 GSF per FTE) is multiplied by
the FTE forecast for FY 2030. Note that the FTE/GSF ratio has been fairly constant from FY
2003 to FY 2008 with a 95% confidence interval of 220.5 ± 3.6%, indicating it may be a
reliable forecasting variable.
GSF and FTE are assumed to level off after 2030.
Table 2.2 - GHG Emissions Intensity and Confidence Interval by Emissions Source (FY03-09)
Emission Intensity
Average
95% Confidence
Interval*
Sources dependent on GSF (MTCO2E per 1000 GSF)
Purchased electricity
Fugitive sources
Stationary combustion
Process sources
Transmission & Distribution (T&D) losses
Sources dependent on FTE (MTCO2E per FTE)
Mobile combustion
Faculty/Staff commuting
Student commuting
Air travel
Solid waste
Wastewater
Paper purchasing
*Based on student’s t-statistic for normally distributed data.
10.20
0.039
4.04
0.0001
1.009
9.86-10.55
0.032-0.045
3.69-4.38
0.00006-0.00011
0.975-1.043
0.049
0.585
0.288
0.274
0.131
0.001
0.028
0.046-0.052
0.573-0.597
0.286-0.291
0.260-0.287
0.128-0.134
0.0009-0.001
0.026-0.031
Table 2.3 - Projections for GHG Emissions Intensity Metrics
Fiscal Year
(FY)
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2030
2040
2050
1000 GSF
FTE
6,690
6,853
6,853
6,853
6,853
6,853
6,853
7,998
7,998
7,998
29,607
27,874
28,367
28,780
29,124
29,417
29,632
35,000
35,000
35,000
Forecasted business-as-usual emissions show an increase in total MTCO2E emissions from 137,843
MTCO2E emissions in the baseline year (FY2008) to 169,744 MTCO2E in 2050. This represents a
23% increase in emissions by 2050 compared to the baseline level.
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Figure 2.3 - GHG Emissions Forecasts through 2050
The business-as-usual GHG emission forecast is based on the assumption that emission intensity
remains constant. However, emission intensity is variable, and the above forecasts are based on the
average values for this parameter.
In order to evaluate uncertainty in the GHG emissions forecast, a sensitivity analysis utilizing the
lower and upper 95% confidence limits on the average emission intensity (Table 2.1) can be utilized
to estimate lower and upper bound future emissions, respectively.
This sensitivity analysis indicates that future GHG emissions are forecasted to be between 18 to 28%
higher than baseline levels (FY 2008) by 2050. This wide range of forecasts reflects the variability in
the input parameters used to develop the business-as-usual emissions forecast.
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Figure 2.4 - Sensitivity Analysis of GHG Emissions Forecasts through 2050
2.3
External Goals
The ACUPCC does not prescribe a timetable for when each signatory must achieve its long-term
commitment to carbon neutrality. It is common practice for institutions involved in climate action to
establish interim and long-term emissions reduction goals to facilitate planning for ambitious climate
neutrality goals. Both science-based and policy-based targets can provide guidance for potential
reduction goals. The table below summarizes various proposed goals at the local, national, and
international level for GHG emissions reductions.
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Table 2.4 - Interim and Long-Term Climate Action Goals
Scope
Internationala
National
Organization
Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC, 2007)a
American Clean Energy and
Security Act (ACES, 2009)c
State
Virginia Energy Plan (2007)
Local
U.S. Mayor’s Climate
Protection Agreement
•
•
•
•
•
•
GHG Emission Reduction Goal
25% below 1990 levels by 2020b
80% below 1990 levels by 2050b
3% below 2005 level in 2012
20% below 2005 level in 2020
42% below 2005 level in 2030
83% below 2005 level in 2050
• 30% below business-as-usual
2025 levels by 2025
• 7% below 1990 levels by 2012b
Notes:
a
– Also recommended in the ACUPCC Implementation Guide.
b
– For the purposes of this table, FY2008 used as baseline for reductions instead of 1990.
c
– Passed the U.S. House of Representatives on June 26, 2009.
Under these external goals, VCU would need to decrease GHG emissions by approximately
150,000 MTCO2E through 2050, relative to the University’s business-as-usual trajectory. If
VCU begins taking action in 2010, this would involve reductions of 3,000-4,000 MTCO2E
annually.
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Figure 2.5 - Comparison of Business-As-Usual GHG Emissions against External Goals
The following table shows how an annual GHG emissions reduction of 4,000 MTCO2E would
translate into actual energy and resource usage reductions for various emission sources.
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Table 2.5 - Estimated Annual Resource Usage Reductions for Attainment of External Goals
Scope
Source
a
Annual GHG
Emissions Reduction
(MTCO2E)b
1
2
3
Corresponding
Annual Usage
Reduction
Usage
Units
(substance
used)
Stationary sources
734
13,904
MMBTU
(natural
gas)
Mobile sources
Purchased
electricity
42
4,842
gallons
(gasoline)
2,085
3,948,209
Commuting
779
1,928,100
Air Travel
239
Solid Waste
122
Equivalent
Activity
57
7
230
308,585
kWh
vehiclemiles
passengermiles
112
US tons
37
135
41
Units of
Equivalent
Activity
Homes’ total
energy use
(electricity,
heating, cooling,
other)
Passenger vehicles
off the streets
Homes using
electricity
Passenger vehicles
off the streets
Passenger vehicles
off the streets
Tons of waste
recycled instead of
sending to landfill
1-3
Total
4,000
a - Process and fugitive emissions are also excluded from this table due to their small (< 1%) contribution to total emissions.
b - The target overall reduction of 4,000 MTCO2E is distributed among sources according to the percentage contribution of
each source.
This breakdown of annual reduction goals by source can be used by VCU departments to approximate
annual goals for each unit. For, example, VCU Parking & Transportation can focus on commuting
and mobile sources, whereas VCU Dining Services can focus on solid waste.
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3.
Identification of GHG Emissions Reduction Projects
3.1.
Background
In the previous section, it was concluded that VCU would have to reduce GHG emissions by
approximately 3,000 to 4,000 MTCO2E per year in order to meet potential interim and long-term
emission reduction goals. In order to identify potential emission reduction projects that could help
realize the reduction goals, a campus survey was conducted focusing on three areas:
•
•
•
Buildings and Plants
Renewable Energy
Development, Transportation, Environment, and Community.
Campus survey field notes are provided in Appendices C through E and summarized below.
3.2.
Behavior Survey
In addition to opportunities related to campus infrastructure, data was collected regarding potential
behavioral changes that could mitigate campus GHG emissions. Separate behavior change surveys
were administered to students and faculty/staff, with exploratory questions in the following areas:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Energy conservation
Water conservation
Waste production
Recycling/Food Services
Transportation/Parking
Other.
Opportunities in the ‘Other’ category included planting trees, conducting a campus conservation
campaign and estimating personal emissions. Respondents ranked a total of 68 potential behavioral
changes on a scale from 1 (unwilling) to 3 (willing). Survey results are documented in Appendix F
and summarized here. Raw survey data is available upon request.
3.2.1
Faculty and Staff Response
Faculty and staff provided responses to the behavior change survey. All of the behavior change best
practices received a median score of three with the exception of two practices that received a median
score of two: (1) lowering the sash on a fume hood when not in use and (2) buying from or doing
business only with companies or organizations that support sustainability actions. The ‘Waste
Production’ and ‘Recycling/Food Services’ categories received the highest average total scores, while
the ‘Other’ category received the lowest average total scores. The results of the faculty and staff
response are summarized below from highest to lowest total score out of potential total of 60 points
(with the category in parenthesis).
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Actions with high potential (total score greater than 57):
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Edit, spell and grammar check on screen to reduce printing (Waste Production)
Take only what you can eat in the dining hall or cafeteria and reduce your food waste
(Recycling / Food Services)
Recycle all recyclable materials (Recycling / Food Services)
Refrain from using push-button automated door-opening mechanisms if not needed (Energy
Conservation)
Choose reusable or refillable products instead of disposables; buy durable goods (Waste
Production)
Opt for travel mugs and reusable water bottles (Recycling / Food Services)
Whenever possible, combine activities, meetings and errands into one trip; use conference
calls or schedule meetings back to back (Transportation / Parking)
Accept a broader range of indoor temperatures (Energy Conservation)
When possible, take the stairs instead of the elevator (Energy Conservation)
Use low-flow showerheads and faucets (Water Conservation)
Wash your clothes in warm or cold water; run at a full load (Water Conservation)
File information electronically (Waste Production)
Send documents and invitations electronically (Waste Production)
Buy recycled or recycled-content products, both pre- and post-consumer (Recycling / Food
Services)
Consider options like telecommuting or distance learning (Transportation / Parking)
Dine in, walk to a restaurant, or pack a lunch to avoid unnecessary driving during the day
(Transportation / Parking)
Actions with medium potential (total scores of 57 and 56):
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Purchase, minimally, 30% recycled paper (Waste Production)
For your old electronics, donate used equipment to schools or other organizations to ensure
reuse and recycling (Recycling / Food Services)
Keep your car well-tuned (Transportation / Parking)
Power down computers during periods of non-use, or set them to “sleep” mode, instead of
using screen-savers (Energy Conservation)
Purchase energy efficient electronics and appliances, including Energy Star products and
energy-efficient fluorescent light bulbs (Energy Conservation)
Turn off your electronics devices (e.g., television, cell phones and other equipment) when
you are not using them (Energy Conservation)
Reuse paper, cardboard, containers, plastics, electronics, furniture, and compost (Waste
Production)
Remove yourself from junk mail and catalog lists (Waste Production)
Do two-sided printing and copying, or scanning for electronic viewing (Waste Production)
Publish and share documents on line (Waste Production)
Use reusable bags / containers for shopping (Recycling / Food Services)
Avoid individual bottled beverages, use pitchers of tap water instead (Water Conservation)
Repair all toilet and faucet leaks right away (Water Conservation)
Reuse envelopes, folders and the blank side of a printed sheet of paper (Waste Production)
Have campus landscaped with low-water-using plants (Water Conservation)
Buy organic, sustainably-grown foods (Recycling / Food Services)
Design documents/ shrink images to minimize paper consumption (Waste Production)
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•
3.2.2
Buy locally grown, seasonal food and products when available (Recycling / Food Services)
Student Response
A total of 1,704 students provided responses to the behavior change survey, including 1,370 students
from the Monroe Park Campus and 334 students from the MCV Campus. The ‘Energy
Conservation’, ‘Water Conservation’ and ‘Waste Production’ categories received the highest total
scores. However, with the exception of the ‘Other’ category, all of the categories were represented
among the top mean scores. The ‘Other’ category received both the lowest total and mean scores.
The results of the student response are summarized below based on mean score (with the category in
parenthesis). Those indicated in italics also received a score of high or medium potential among
faculty and staff.
Actions with high potential (mean score greater than 2.8 out of 3):
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Report all toilet and faucet leaks right away (Water Conservation)
Remove yourself from junk mail and catalog lists (Waste Production)
Whenever possible, combine activities, meetings and errands into one trip; use conference
calls or schedule meetings back to back (Transportation / Parking)
Take only what you can eat in the dining hall or cafeteria and reduce your food waste
(Recycling / Food Services)
Keep your car well-tuned (Transportation / Parking)
Use the recommended grade of motor oil (Transportation / Parking)
Target your mailing list (Waste Production)
Opt for travel mugs and reusable water bottles (Recycling / Food Services)
Check and replace your car’s air filter regularly (Transportation / Parking)
Turn off lights when you leave a room for more than five minutes; use only as much light as
you need (Energy Conservation)
Avoid printing emails (Waste Production)
Edit, spell and grammar check on screen (Waste Production)
Dine in, walk to a restaurant, or pack a lunch to avoid unnecessary driving during the day
(Transportation / Parking)
If you have two cars, drive the one with better gas mileage whenever possible (Transportation
/ Parking)
Wash your clothes in warm or cold water; run at a full load (Water Conservation)
Recycle all recyclable materials (Recycling / Food Services)
Power down computers during periods of non-use, or set them to “sleep” mode, instead of
using screen-savers (Energy Conservation)
Take shorter showers (Water Conservation)
Choose reusable or refillable products instead of disposables; buy durable goods (Waste
Production)
Publish and share documents on line (Waste Production)
Do two-sided printing and copying, or scanning for electronic viewing (Waste Production)
Use reusable or biodegradable napkins, cups, plates and flatware at meetings and other events
(Waste Production)
Buy products with minimal packaging (Waste Production)
Follow your car’s manufacturer’s maintenance schedule (Transportation / Parking)
Actions with medium potential (mean scores greater than 2.7 out of 3):
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Send agenda and other publications by email (Waste Production)
File information electronically (Waste Production)
Reduce time spent idling your car (Transportation / Parking)
Reuse paper, cardboard, containers, plastics, electronics, furniture, and compost (Waste
Production)
Send documents and invitations electronically (Waste Production)
Compost your food waste (Recycling / Food Services)
Unload unnecessary items from the trunk of your car to reduce weight (Transportation /
Parking)
When it’s time to buy a new car, choose one that offers good gas mileage and/or choose a
hybrid/alternative fuel vehicle (Transportation / Parking)
Use overdrive and cruise control on your car if you have them (Transportation / Parking)
Choose to repair items rather than discarding them (Waste Production)
Reuse envelopes, folders and the blank side of a printed sheet of paper (Waste Production)
Purchase, minimally, 30% recycled paper (Waste Production)
Use reusable nametags at meetings and other events (Waste Production)
Turn off your electronics devices (e.g., television, cell phones and other equipment) when
you're not using them (Energy Conservation)
Buy locally grown, seasonal food and products when available (Recycling / Food Services)
For your old electronics, donate used equipment to schools or other organizations to ensure
reuse and recycling (Recycling / Food Services)
Purchase energy efficient electronics and appliances, including Energy Star products and
energy-efficient fluorescent light bulbs (Energy Conservation)
Think twice before printing (Waste Production)
Use rechargeable batteries (Waste Production)
If you have a removable roof rack on your car and you are not using it, take it off
(Transportation / Parking)
The most common comment provided by students on the survey indicated the difficulty in purchasing
eco-friendly goods or services due to added expense. Other comments were directed at measures that
could be taken by VCU on behalf of the students, including increasing recycling programs and bike
paths, offering more documents on-line, increasing use of energy and water-conserving devices on
campus, and discontinuing out-sourcing to non-local suppliers.
3.3.
Campus Survey
3.3.1
Buildings and Plants
Through demand for power and fuel, greenhouse gas emissions from VCU’s buildings and central
plants comprise the majority of VCU’s footprint. A site assessment was conducted to gather data
from the following campus buildings based on both the magnitude of energy use and the diversity of
functions represented by these buildings. The diversity of function allows for potential future
extrapolation of opportunities to buildings of similar function.
Campus Building
Function
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Campus Building
Function
Massey Cancer Center
Clinical/Research
Smith Building
Instructional/Research
Oliver Hall (South Wing)
Instructional/Administration
Shafer Court Dining Center
Food Services
Tompkins-McCaw Library
Historic/Specialty (Library)
Stuart C. Siegel Center
Specialty
Lyons Dental Building
Instructional/Clinical
James Branch Cabell Library
Specialty
Wood Memorial Building
Instructional/Clinical
Rhoads Hall
Residential
Ginter House
Historic
The building assessment reviewed a variety of electrical and mechanical processes including:
•
•
•
•
Building envelope
o Window replacements.
Lighting systems
o Lighting ballast replacements
o Review of day lighting applications and tri-level lighting control for sports arena.
Heating and cooling
o Application of variable speed drives for air and water side systems
o Building retrocommissioning/rebalancing
o Replacement of aged hot water and air handling systems.
Building automation
o Lighting occupancy sensors
o Application of CO2/pressure sensors for demand based ventilation
o Application of digital building automation control systems
o Application of hot water and chilled water reset control strategies.
Data was also gathered for the MCV and MPC Steam Plant Systems and the Tompkins-McCaw
Library Chilled Water Plant System which provide steam and chilled water to the campus,
respectively. The assessment reviewed a variety of mechanical processes including:
•
•
•
•
Right-sizing chiller and boiler systems
Reduction in boiler condensate losses
Restoration of boiler feed water system
Water side economizer and chilled water reset optimization.
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Future Considerations
Based on the assessment of various building types, as described above and in Section 4.2.2, several
common Energy Conservation Measures have been identified that can be continued to be applied to
the VCU campus as VCU continues to apply their Energy Management and building renovation
programs in a manner integrated with the Climate Action Plan. Among the observed Energy
Conservation Measures that should be considered when assessing additional buildings are:

Application of Variable Speed Drives to Hydronic Systems: Assessment of multiple buildings
have found the opportunity remains to apply variable speed motor drives to chilled water,
heating hot water, and condenser water systems. Variable speed drives have become very
cost competitive and allow, when coupled with direct digital controls, to optimize the
pumping operation to actual load conditions.

Reduction of Laboratory Air Change Rates: VCU operates a number of buildings that contain
research laboratories and or vivarium facilities. These operations are often equipped with
various ventilated equipment including autoclaves, chemical hoods, etc.. Laboratories should
be maintained negative to the surrounding areas to promote unidirectional flow to the lab.
However, laboratories often have high air change rates that can be reduced. Reduction of air
change rates saves significant energy by eliminating the volume of conditioned make-up air
required to replenish the exhaust. Consideration should also be given to reducing the air
change rate during unoccupied periods to maintain the required unidirectional air flow, but
recognize the reduced need for air change when the space is unoccupied.

Application of Direct Digital Controls (DDC): VCU has a mixed of buildings including
some with fully applied DDC for their building systems, some with DDC applied only to
primary equipment (air handlers, chillers, etc.) and some with pneumatic controls (no DDC).
The application of DDC controls eases system monitoring, the application of programmatic
control systems, and the ability to more rapidly and more finely apply the controls.

Lighting System Enhancement: VCU should continue to look to apply lighting system
enhancement to their buildings as the opportunity and funding allows. Considerations should
be given to revising the night lighting circuiting to reduce the lighting levels, modifying
operating practices to allow the lighting to be manually shut-off at the completion of nightly
building janitorial service, the application of occupancy controls to increase efficiency of
lighting application and the consideration of day lighting controls where natural lighting level
support. VCU should consider the application of one or more of these enhancements through
the use of performance based contracting.

Ventilation System Improvements: VCU should consider the application of demand based
ventilation controls for spaces/facilities subject to large swings in occupancy loads. Further,
VCU should utilize building schedule controls to eliminate ventilation supplied during
unoccupied periods for general occupancy-type buildings.
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
Economizer Controls: Some older air handling systems were developed without the capacity
to apply full air side economizer operation (100 OA for free-cooling) when conditions allow.
VCU should consider incorporating full air side economizer with enthalpy based controls
when the opportunities arise to upgrade/replace air handling units. Further, VCU should
consider the application of water side economizer systems on the condensing systems. The
application of water side economize was generally missing from most buildings audited.

Hot Water/Chilled Water Reset: With the greater application of DDC controls, VCU should
consider the application of hot water and cold water set point reset strategies based on
outdoor air temperature. Consideration should be given to dry and wet bulb conditions so
that space conditions do not suffer from high relative conditions because of temperature reset
application.

Boiler System Upgrade: Boiler systems in individual buildings were found to be original
installations in some instances. Boilers have long operating lives, but the efficiency of
boilers has increased significantly since the 1960s when some of the observed boilers were
installed. VCU is already considering the expansion of centralized steam districts in both the
Monroe Park and MCV campuses. Where independent boiler operations are desirable, VCU
should consider the replacement of the older boilers with newer boilers.

Single Pane Window Replacements: Window replacements are costly programs typically not
justifiable on energy savings alone. However, where opportunities for window upgrades
arise, VCU should look to replace single pane windows with low-e thermal windows.
Further, VCU should refrain from re-installing operable windows in conditioned spaces as the
local window operation greatly impacts the ability to control the overall space conditions and
energy usage.

Retro/Re-Commissioning Programs: VCU should consider the establishment of a routine and
regular retro/re-commissioning program to review the building systems/desired operating
conditions and determine whether the original control points need to be re-established
through retro-commissioning or a new control approach established through a recommissioning effort. Building system performance and the operating control strategies
should be reviewed and confirmed on a regular frequency.
3.3.2
Renewable Energy
Opportunities for on-site renewable energy were assessed in three areas:
•
•
•
•
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Arrays for Parking Decks
Solar Thermal for Residence Halls
Geothermal for a Classroom Building.
Biomass for central steam plant
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The flat roof area of VCU’s campus parking decks provides significant space that could
accommodate solar PV arrays. A site assessment was conducted for the following VCU parking
decks:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
West Main Street Parking Deck
West Cary Street Parking Deck
West Broad Street Parking Deck
N Deck Parking Deck
Jefferson Street Parking Deck
E & S (Patient & Visitors) Parking Deck
D Deck (faculty & staff) Parking Deck
Broad & Belvidere Parking Deck
8 th Street Parking Deck
Bowe Street Parking Deck
Collectively, these parking decks offer over 450,000 square feet of flat roof area for solar PV
arrays.
The demand for hot water contributes to a significant percentage of energy use in residence halls.
The flat roof area of a number of VCU’s residence halls could accommodate solar thermal systems
for heating water. A site assessment was conducted for the following VCU residence halls:
• Warner Hall
• Rudd Hall
• McRae Hall
• Cabaniss Hall
• Bear Hall.
Collectively, these residence halls offer over 110,000 square feet of flat roof area for solar
thermal systems.
A future capital project of constructing a General Classroom Building on the current VV Parking Lot
was considered as a candidate for geothermal heating and cooling. Based on the estimated heating
and cooling load for this building, two acres or more of space would be needed for installing wells.
There is approximately an acre of open space across the street which is half of the needed space.
VCU is also studying the use of a renewable fuel (biomass) for its central steam plant. This proposed
project involves the addition of biomass boilers or a biomass gasification unit to the central steam
plant to displace use of natural gas. Expected biomass feedstock includes wood byproduct and/or
warm season grasses.
3.3.3
Development, Transportation, Environment, and Community
A site assessment was conducted to gather data in the following areas:
•
•
Development - Institutional growth; Development density and character; Land use; Open
space; Student housing; Planning and design
Transportation - Commuting characteristics; Personal vehicle policy; Transit opportunities;
Efficiency of movement; Land dedicated to parking
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•
•
Environment - Stormwater management; Canopy cover; Campus landscape; Outdoor water
reuse
Community - Alignment at state and local levels; Attitude to historic and cultural resources;
Impact on surrounding communities; Partnerships with City of Richmond.
Development
Physical growth is necessary to support the university’s mission. While VCU is unlikely to continue
to grow at the same dramatic pace of the previous two decades, a modest growth rate of 1 to 2% can
still be expected, as in most other higher education institutions of a similar profile. The impacts of
growth can mitigated through actions that would reduce capital construction, impacts of singleoccupant vehicles, space per person, and energy use. Carbon-abatement opportunities in future
capital development will relate to energy-efficient building design and optimal use of both campus
lands and built spaces.
Institutional Growth
Future Strategies:
Commit to updating the physical master plan on a periodic basis of not less than 10 years.
Continue to work within a framework for physical development that comprises of
compact building footprints that help reduce infrastructure and decrease the vehicle miles
traveled on campus
Identify funding for retrocommissioning, as well as replacing inefficient mechanical
systems in existing buildings
Develop a strategy for whole building modernization where required
Physical space on campus has an immediate correlation with the consumption of
resources as well as the quality of experience and efficiency of operation. VCU’s space
inventory exceeded 6.85 million GSF in 2009. A campus-wide space needs assessment
for VCU facilities would be of critical importance to understand the use of its spaces in
terms of distribution, type and intensity of use in order to extract efficiencies and address
deficiencies. This is a continual process even as VCU plans for newer capital projects
that will add to or replace existing space inventory.
Development Density and Character
Future Strategies:
Maintain an aggregate institution wide floor area ratio (FAR) to not go below 1.8. FAR
is a measure of built space created compared to ground space occupied. A higher FAR
translates into greater efficiency of the use of available ground, which in the case of VCU
is limited.
Adhere to height and density guidelines articulated in VCU Vision 2020 Master Site Plan
while giving careful consideration to the microclimates created between buildings and
access to sunlight at the ground level.
Facilitate the creation of beneficial microclimates through building massing, landscape
and streetscape to help mitigate temperature and wind extremes and reduce energy loads
on buildings.
Land Use
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Future Strategies:
Promote naturalization efforts and landscape enhancements that improve campus
aesthetics, support carbon-reduction goals and even act as carbon sinks.
Limit greenfield development to only those projects where an alternate site does not exist
or only if the site selection criterion for the program necessitates greenfield development.
At the time of writing this documentation, the VCU Rice Center, working closely with
the Virginia Aquatic Resources Trust Fund was in the advanced stages of planning to
convert an existing 70 acre impoundment into wetlands. Preliminary estimates indicate
that this wetland, when fully functional has the ability to sequester carbon in the range of
17 to 84 MTCO2E annually. While this may not been significant when compared to
VCU’s existing carbon footprint and carbon abatement targets, these wetlands will have a
phenomenal education and environmental awareness value.
Consider the impact on VCU’s carbon footprint in the future planning of uses on the farm
property in Ashland.
Develop a parking infrastructure planning strategy by means of which there will be no
net increase in impermeable or low albedo surfaces.
Open Space
Future Strategies:
Maximize and consolidate existing and proposed green open spaces.
Leverage available natural area resources as carbon sinks.
Create new green spaces that provide an optimal balance between use and environmental
benefit.
Student Housing
Future Strategies:
At present approximately 15% of VCU’s students live on campus while the remaining
majority live within three miles from campus. It is well documented that students who live
on or immediate to campus are able to participate more fully in the social experiences of
university student life.
Consider strategic shifts in university policy to increase on-campus resident population at an
appropriate level that balances cost.
Work with the City of Richmond on issues relating to off-campus student housing.
Planning and Design
Future Strategies:
VCU has grown significantly in the past two decades. Even as the institution expects to grow
very modestly in its student population in the foreseeable future, growth will continue to
occur in its facilities and infrastructure.
Build structures for permanence and quality as well as flexibility while incorporating
sustainable design approaches into the design of all physical campus elements.
Maintain LEED Silver as the baseline standard for all new construction.
Extend VCU’s commitment to LEED Silver to address specific performance targets for
energy. To this end, the CAP recommends that VCU exceed ASHRAE 90.1 by 30% for all
new construction.
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Consider developing a set of sustainable design guidelines that identifies those sustainability
priorities that are beyond the scope of LEED or exceed LEED requirements and are specific
to the context of VCU.
Maintain campus wide standards that require the use of products that meet or exceed industry
benchmarks for green performance.
Follow the LEED Multiple Buildings approach to establish a set of baseline credits.
Quantify the emissions associated with all new construction and establish an approach to
make the project carbon neutral over a given period of time.
Encourage VCU affiliated entities such as the Biotechnology Research Park and the Qatar
campus to emulate VCU goals for becoming carbon neutral.
Consistently evaluate available space on campus and compare to space planning norms at
comparable institutions to maintain an optimal balance. Increase utilization rates and
building space efficiency.
Make sustainable features visible and available as learning and teaching opportunities.
Transportation
VCU’s carbon footprint associated with commuting is a combination of student, faculty and staff
commute, fleet vehicle use and air travel. Given that faculty, staff and student commute patterns
contribute to approximately 18% of VCU’s GHG emissions, transportation related actions are a
critical component of VCU’s CAP. These actions are also strongly intertwined with university policy
and have the potential to significantly reduce transportation related GHG emissions.
It would be appropriate to target a reduction of 2,000 MTCO2E annually associated with commuting.
While this can be achieved in numerous ways, VCU needs to balance out the proposals in terms of
cost, visibility and effectiveness. For, example VCU can achieve its target simply by purchasing
offsets associated with the first 25% of its air travel but that would come at a cost (approximately
$20,000 annually) with little or no visibility for the investment.
A combination of multiple actions are recommended that build on ongoing initiatives by VCU
Parking & Transportation and expanding efforts to promote and enable lower-carbon travel and
telecommuting. These initiatives have the potential to reduce annual GHG emissions, save millions
of dollars in reduced parking construction and fuel costs and improve the overall campus aesthetic.
The following recommendations are based on a broad analysis of relevant data collected in the Clean
Air Cool Planet Campus Carbon Calculator prepared for VCU and surveys conducted by VCU.
Analysis of available data suggests that VCU faculty and staff burden its carbon footprint by
approximately 26 million commute miles. This group would also be one that is most likely to have
regular and predictable work hours and commute schedules, making them an ideal candidate for
promoting alternate commute strategies. Faculty and staff need to be educated and encouraged to
adopt alternate strategies. This is also a group with which the ideas would resonate well from an
environmental values perspective.
Faculty and staff can purchase discounted transit passes on Greater Richmond Transit Company
(GRTC) buses while students can avail of these passes at no cost. Data from VCU Parking &
Transportation suggests that only 1 in 10 students took advantage of this facility. Data also suggest
that while the majority of the student population lives within a 3 mile distance from campus, 61%
drive to campus adding over 18 million commute miles to VCU’s carbon footprint. Changes in
parking policy and measures to promote increased use of the available transit system will be highly
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effective in significantly reducing VCU’s commute carbon footprint. The results of a VCU student,
faculty and staff commuting survey are shown below.
Students
Faculty
Staff
# of Survey Takers
278
128
284
% Commuting by Personal
Vehicle
61%
84%
82%
% Driving Alone
56%
76%
69%
% Driving Carpool
4%
8%
13%
% Commuting by Bus
12%
7%
10%
Trips/Day
2
2
2
Days/Year
162
198
224
Miles/Trip
3
14
8
The primary strategy is to reduce the percentage of single occupant vehicles (SOVs) across the crosssection of VCU’s commuter population of faculty, students and staff. The following set of
recommendations outlines one such set of scenarios that could help further this strategy:
Future Strategies for Reducing Single Occupant Vehicles:
Reduce staff SOV by a minimum of 6% annually by a combination of converting 3% to transit
ridership and another 3% to carpool.
Reduce commuting population to no greater than 50% of student body
Reduce faculty SOV by a minimum of 6% annually by a combination of converting 3% to transit
ridership and another 3% to carpool.
Carefully analyze SOV costs to ensure that transit options maintain a price advantage.
Purchase offsets for air travel for 50-100% of all air travel miles.
Introduce car-sharing organizations like Zipcar to operate on campus.
Complement SOV restrictions with a guaranteed ride home program.
Additionally VCU needs to explore a range of related strategies to include the following:
Future Strategies for Alternative Commuting Options:
Promote concepts like telecommuting, four day work weeks and flexible work schedules to reduce
miles travelled and to minimize the need to commute during peak hours.
Work with GRTC and the student population to determine how transit use can be increased, including
use of existing GRTC Express Bus Park ‘N Ride lots with dedicated Express Bus service to select
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VCU campus locations and supporting a proposed high-speed bus route along Broad Street.
Implement a no-idling policy for all fleet vehicles and service providers to VCU.
Encourage the purchase of alternate fuel vehicles for the university fleet.
Explore the feasibility of expanding online learning options.
Continue to facilitate and promote bicycle use on campus
Promote bike use safety: Develop a Bike Master plan that will help identify and designate bike paths
on campus, bike lanes on major routes and between the two campuses, and support elements like bike
racks, easily accessible repair shops, etc.
Promote walkability by maintaining a reasonable 10 minute walk distance between the majority of
buildings on campus.
Continue to facilitate a safe pedestrian environment through pedestrian malls, a pedestrian-only
campus core, improved safety at cross walks and intersections and designated mid-block intersections
where appropriate.
Facilitate the sharing and dissemination of information relating to ride-share programs, transit
information and SOV commute alternatives.
VCU is investigating viable alternatives for faculty for traveling to meetings, including adding a
robust on-line conferencing capability. Microsoft Office Live Meeting is one conferencing solution
in consideration as it connects and engages audiences in on-line meetings, training and events through
a hosted service.
In support of improving and expanding opportunities for cycling on the VCU campuses, VCU has
retained BICI, Inc., to complete a State of Cycling report for VCU as a first step in VCU’s bicyclerelated sustainability process. As part of this effort, BICI will conduct community surveys and cyclist
counts, and evaluate the infrastructure inventory related to cycling. The report will outline VCU’s
current cycling conditions, as well as next steps and recommendations for increasing the percentage
of students, faculty, and staff that choose to commute by bicycle.
An example of a local cooperative proposed program is the Sustainable Transportation Initiative of
Richmond (STIR), in which the City of Richmond, VCU, and the private sector (Ford Motor
Company and General Motors) may cooperatively develop infrastructure for eco-friendly
transportation systems (e.g., an “urban mobility hub” featuring Segway, ZipCar, plug-in hybrid, and
electric cars).
Additionally parking policy, supply and demand need to be carefully balanced and adjusted to place
SOV commutes to be less favorable and less convenient. The following set of strategies offer a
starting point:
Future Strategies Related to Parking Policies:
Limit expansion in parking capacity in favor of alternate strategies.
Implement a university policy restricting freshmen students from having cars on campus
Price parking for car pool and alternate fuel vehicles at a significant advantage.
Further develop partnerships with City of Richmond to increase efficiency of parking supply
utilization.
Evaluate regional Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) options.
Develop strategies to better manage on-street parking supply and minimize cruising to find parking
spaces.
Add surcharge to parking pass fee for offset program (e.g., tree planting)
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In addition to the above recommendations, below is a summary of transportation strategies that VCU
has already implemented or are planned for implementation.
Past Strategies Already Implemented:
VCU
Parking
&
Transportation
Universal
transit
pass
program
through
existing
contract
with
GRTC
Periodic
transportation
surveys
Improved
and
expanded
bicycle
parking:
Includes
new
racks
and
guarded
racks
Comprehensive
web
portal
for
access
to
campus
Increasing
and
upgrading
telecommuting
parking
and
transportation
information
technology
Transportation
and
parking
information
Fuel‐efficient
vehicles
purchasing
policy
for
new
campaign
through
emails
and
other
sources
conversions
to
electric,
hybrid
and/or
CNG
vehicles
Effective
transportation
signage
Support
online
learning
program:
VCU
offers
web‐
based
and
video
conferencing
courses
Discourage
new
students
from
bringing
cars
to
Flex‐time:
Employees
have
options
to
campus
accommodate
commuter
schedules
Publicize
existing
ridesharing
program
Four‐day
work
week
option
Guaranteed
ride
home
program
Improve
transit
stops
and
stations:
VCU
Parking
&
Transportation
has
requested
improvements
of
Coordinate
Climate
Action
Plan
and
campus
GRTC
benches,
shelters
and
emergency
master
plan
communications
technology
Past Strategies Planned for Implementation:
Priority
parking
and
rates
for
low‐emission
vehicles
Priority
and
discounted
parking
for
carpoolers:
Incentives
start
in
July
2010
with
launch
of
ZipCar
program
Increase
parking
meter
rates
street‐side
by
the
Bike
Program:
VCU
has
commissioned
a
State
of
City
of
Richmond
Cycling
report
to
outline
current
conditions
and
Coordinate
with
car‐sharing
organizations:
ZipCar
provide
recommendations
to
increase
ridership
program
will
be
implemented
in
July
2010
Environmental | Operational Characteristics
Storm Water Management | Runoff Characteristics
A reduction in the amount of storm water that has to be actively managed (such as through pumping
or treatment prior to discharge) represents a reduction in energy use and in the concomitant emission
of GHGs. The implications for GHG reductions that result from storm water management activities
will largely accrue to the City of Richmond, with VCU contributing to the overall reduction of storm
water to be managed by the City. Improved storm water management at VCU can reduce the need for
and the size of City of Richmond managed storm water management facilities and, therefore,
reductions in energy from more limited construction and operations. The following on-campus
alternatives for storm water management will reduce downstream impacts and also potentially reduce
the recently implemented City of Richmond storm water fee:
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Future Strategies:
On-campus storm water management at the building|precinct stage by means of roof
storage (green roof), underground cisterns, encouraging infiltration through rain gardens
and grassy swales where feasible, porous hardscape surfaces, infiltration trenches, etc.
Develop an integrated approach to on-campus storm water management with the goal to
not exceed storm water runoff quantities to an acceptable level that necessitates
innovative approaches in the planning and design of new projects that also minimizes the
City of Richmond storm water utility bill.
Address storm water quality concerns also on a campus-wide basis over satisfying those
needs in isolation per the LEED requirements for new capital projects.
Divert condensate water from the city’s sewer system for use in landscape irrigation.
Canopy Cover Characteristics
A promising potential to enhance the canopy cover associated with VCU will be to work in close
partnership with the City of Richmond to facilitate and implement a joint street tree program on those
city streets that edge or pass through the VCU and MCV campuses. While street tree programs
implemented in this manner also have the added benefit of sequestering carbon at very modest rates
of around 6 to 8 MTCO2E/mile per annum, the larger near term tangible benefits include enhancing
the environment visually, providing shade on the ground and even buildings in a manner where they
reduce heating and cooling loads and potentially create favorable microclimates.
Undoubtedly most trees in urban areas are subject to significant stress, with the same being true at
VCU also. The conditions of existing trees both on campus, and those on City of Richmond streets
needs to be jointly evaluated and maintained to equal standards. Creating a joint team also promotes
the efficient use of resources and manpower, further advancing the goals of the CAP and overall
sustainability on campus.
Campus Landscape
Based on review of practices on campus and conversations with VCU Grounds, landscape design and
maintenance standards are fairly conventional. While VCU Grounds is careful in limiting the use of
chemicals in the landscape, significant advances can be made. Urban campuses across the nation
have successfully adopted 100% natural landscape maintenance practices. The knowhow exists and
is easily available, the only limiting factors being economics and personnel enthusiasm. While the
carbon sequestration potential of campus landscapes is minimal those and other such environmental
benefits must be taken into consideration.
Outdoor Water Use
The primary recommendation on outdoor water use on VCU is to shift from potable to non-potable
water sources such as stored storm water runoff from roofs and condensate water from mechanical
equipment. Current technologies that work with real time information in determining the need for
irrigation should ideally be integrated into the on-campus irrigation system. The use of water features
need to be carefully evaluated and their designs should ensure minimal losses as also strive to serve
an environmental benefit.
Community
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Alignment with Sustainability Principles and Goals at State and Local Levels
VCU should continue to work in tandem with local, state and national norms for mitigating climate
change and exceed those where feasible both to reinforce its identity as a leader in environmental
stewardship and also function as a laboratory for testing and implementing new concepts.
Attitude to Historic and Cultural resources
VCU must continue to respect and invest to preserve the integrity of historic and/or older structures to
enhance the character of campus. In this regard:
Future Strategies:
Where new developments are proposed by VCU, necessary assessments should be made
to continue to comply with Commonwealth of Virginia regulations to preserve the
historic and cultural integrity of those sites along with the careful preservation of
historical artifacts if any.
Where appropriate, VCU should facilitate the inclusion of interpretive signage.
Impact of Institution on Surrounding Communities
VCU and its surrounding communities must function together for the long term integrity and
vitality of each other. While VCU creates the need that runs the economic engine of its
surrounding communities in small but meaningful ways, the surrounding community adds to the
vibrancy and sense of place of the VCU campus. Common concerns of such town-gown
interactions that must continue to be actively managed include:
Future Strategies:
Working with the surrounding communities to maintain their integrity, given the pressures to
properly maintain student oriented housing so that it doesn’t become detrimental to the social
composition and economic outlook of the neighborhood.
Managing on-street VCU student parking from becoming a conflict with surrounding
neighborhoods.
Supporting local businesses that can serve the needs of both the neighborhoods and VCU
students.
Encouraging VCU faculty and staff to become residents in the surrounding neighborhoods
through incentives for property ownership or adopting commute free lifestyles.
Encouraging community-wide sustainability education for K-12 students, as well as other
community agencies.
Establishing recycling drop-off points and containers at strategic locations for students living
off-campus or in apartment buildings not serviced by the City of Richmond.
Partnering with the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (CVWMA) for monthly
recycling pick-up using a dedicated CVWMA truck or container for a pilot project.
Partnering with the United Methodist Church in support of their commitment to stewardship.
Partnerships in Resource Management and Services
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At the core of sustainability practices is the need to derive greater levels of efficiencies in the
manner in which day-to-day operational requirements are met.
There are numerous
opportunities for VCU and the City of Richmond to operate together.
These include:
Transit: VCU has partnered with GRTC to provide transit options to its community.
Recycling programs: VCU has made significant strides towards implementing a system
for the collection of recyclable materials. VCU has partnered with the City of Richmond
to share experiences, as well as engage the City to increase recycling and trash collection
on streets throughout the campus.
Street Tree Program: As detailed in the earlier section.
Renewable Energy: Jointly sponsor installation of a PV array to be located on or under
the Martin Luther King Bridge with the City of Richmond.
3.4.
Waste Minimization
As mentioned in the previous section, VCU has focused efforts on minimizing the amount of waste
that is landfilled from campus operations, which includes providing convenient and efficient
recycling services and composting. The VCU Department of Environmental Conservation provides
recycling, document destruction and contract trash collection services at VCU and at the VCU
Medical Center. The VCU Department of Environmental Conservation is part of the Facilities
Management Division. The department has a goal to
divert a minimum of 25 percent of the solid waste
generated by VCU facilities through waste reduction,
reuse and recycling.
In 2009, VCU recycled the following materials:
•
•
•
•
•
•
1,014,440 pounds of paper (507 tons)
532,660 pounds of cardboard (266 tons)
263,160 pounds of scrap metal (132 tons)
74,120 pounds of computers and electronics
(37 tons)
63,640 pounds of aluminum, glass and plastic containers (32 tons)
9,800 pounds of light bulbs and batteries (5 tons)
VCU also participates in RecycleMania, a friendly competition and benchmarking tool for college
and university recycling programs to promote waste reduction activities to their campus communities.
As part of VCU’s involvement in the RecycleMania Waste Minimization category, VCU is pledging
to implement the following waste reduction practices on its campus:
•
•
•
Implementing an active program to sell or donate campus surplus property;
Offering discounts or other incentives for using reusable mugs in campus dining operations;
and,
Creating an active program to educate employees and students about waste minimization
practices (e.g., incorporating waste minimization information into orientation programs).
Composting projects are also under consideration at VCU, including:
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•
•
•
•
A partnership with the Virginia Department of Corrections to accept organic and other wastes
at their Powhatan Correctional Facility composting project;
Composting at a VCU farm facility located in Ashland, Virginia;
Composting on-campus; and,
Including a sustainability requirement for a composting program as a pre-requisite for third
party contractors.
Other waste minimization measures include improvements to the existing VCU Surplus Furniture &
Equipment Reuse Program, such as cataloging and posting items on-line, and partnerships with local
non-profit organizations, such as Goodwill, to receive surplus items from VCU.
3.5.
Benchmarking Study
In addition to the targeted assessments of campus infrastructure and behavioral changes described
above, benchmarking of external institutions was conducted to identify best practices in climate
action planning. Published Climate Action Plans from the following doctorate-granting ACUPCC
signatories were compared and contrasted:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cornell University
SUNY ESF
University of Washington
University of Florida
Arizona State University
Brandeis University
Duke University
University of California, Berkeley
Georgia Institute of Technology
University of Pennsylvania
University of North Carolina
University of Massachusetts.
As with behavior change survey, best practices were identified in the following areas:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Energy conservation
Water conservation
Waste production
Recycling/Food Services
Transportation/Parking
Other.
Best practices in each of these areas were evaluated by members of the VCU Sustainability
Committee with regards to three criteria: potential cost savings, potential GHG reductions, and
potential opportunities for education and outreach. Survey results are documented in Appendix G and
summarized here.
Best practices with high potential in each of the three evaluation criteria were:
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•
•
•
•
Fuel switching, specifically the investigation of the use of synthetic gas (e.g., from biomass or
wastewater facilities) or using natural gas for campus cogeneration plants.
Business travel measures, including video-conferencing/telecommuting capabilities, public
transit for local business trips, education of employees about alternative travel arrangements,
and expanding opportunities for behavioral change (e.g., telecommuting, alternative work
schedules, online class offerings, promotion of on-campus living, integrated planning among
departments, and incentives to use low carbon options).
Green purchasing policies, including life-cycle costing and purchasing low
carbon/environmentally responsible products (e.g., recycled paper, Energy Star appliances, and
green cleaning products).
Student and community outreach and involvement initiatives to change day-to-day actions,
including a VCU Goes Green Rep behavioral change program, and development of student
groups and awareness campaigns with a focus on reduced energy use and emissions, policy
changes, awareness, and reduced waste. Additionally, high ranked examples included charging
a student committee to consider incorporation of sustainability initiatives into student life.
Best practices with high potential in at least two of the three evaluation criteria were:
•
•
•
3.6.
Establishment of building energy standards, specifically working with state agencies involved
in the construction and renovation of state facilities to ensure that all new construction and
major renovation projects are energy and water efficient, conserve the use of resources, and
provide healthy and productive spaces for employees, clients, and visitors. This measure may
include utilizing a standard which includes certification by the U.S. Green Building Council
LEED program.
Commuter travel measures, including expanding or promoting bicycle usage, ZipCar
membership, parking bans, alternative work strategies, disincentive pricing strategies, and use
of a transportation demand management (TDM) program to provide commuters with options
other than the single-occupant vehicle.
Curriculum and research efforts, including course offerings and degree programs related to the
environment and sustainability, and workshops, internships, seminars, reading projects,
research opportunities and sponsorship, research centers and partnerships that include
significant sustainability components or a sustainability focus.
Offsets
Beyond implementing internal emission reduction projects, VCU may need to purchase offsets to
mitigate a portion of its emissions. Offsets may include RECs for green power, carbon credits from
voluntary and regulatory markets, and carbon allowances under regulatory markets. Purchasing
offsets would allow VCU to mitigate emissions without having to implement infrastructure or
behavioral changes. However, purchasing offsets provide no return on investment. In addition,
offsets are projected to become more costly under expected future regulatory programs. For these
reasons, in most instances, offsets will be a lower priority than implementing emission reduction
projects.
Renewable Energy Offerings of VCU’s Local Electric Distribution Company
A voluntary renewable energy program is available from VCU’s local electric utility distribution
company, Dominion Virginia Power (Dominion). The Dominion Green Power program allows
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business customers in Virginia to voluntarily support renewable energy. Dominion Green Power
gives customers the option to be leaders in the growth of renewable energy above and beyond other
government goals or requirements, like the Virginia Renewable Portfolio Standard.
Participating in Dominion Green Power means more renewable energy development; it is a means to
ensure that renewable energy is delivered to the electrical grid and to support new renewable energy
facilities. To do this, Dominion purchases high quality, Green-e certified RECs from a company
called 3 Degrees in the amount specified by participating customers. Each REC features a unique
serial number that corresponds with kilowatt hours that are put on the grid.
The additional cost to participate in the Green Power program is 1.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh)
($0.015/kWh). There are two enrollment options: the 100% option and the Block option. In the
latter, customers can purchase RECs in $2 blocks - as much as desired – with each block representing
133 kWh of renewable energy. Additional charges for Dominion Green Power will appear as a
separate line item on participating customer bills. Enrollment can be changed or cancelled without
penalty at any time. Dominion does not make a profit from the Dominion Green Power program.
Finally, Dominion's program uniquely supports regional renewable energy resources. As such, it
provides a co-benefit of achieving economic development goals within the region, as well as perhaps
addressing localized air quality and related environmental impacts from conventional generation
sources.
VCU recognizes that concerns have been raised about the impact of wind farms on bird populations.
Studies are now conducted to understand bird migration patterns to ensure the safe positioning and
siting of wind farms. Ideally, sites should be free of ground prey and bodies of water that attract
birds, not be within the hunting range of raptor nests or located on bird migratory routes. In addition,
modern wind turbine designs are much more bird-friendly. For example, solid tubular towers are
used to prevent birds from perching and the turbine blades rotate much more slowly than earlier
designs.
VCU recognizes that any use of natural resources may have attendant environmental aspects. For this
reason, VCU will seek to support only those renewable energy projects that have appropriately and
adequately assessed and addressed these environmental aspects and any related impacts.
Direct Procurement of Renewable Energy
VCU could enter into a long-term renewable power purchase agreement as an alternative to buying
RECs. Renewable energy development goes much deeper than protecting the environment. The
development and operation of the solar project creates temporary construction jobs and long-term
management jobs, again providing an economic co-benefit.
Renewable Energy Requirements in Virginia
As part of legislation to re-regulate the state's electricity industry, Virginia enacted a voluntary
renewable energy portfolio goal in 2007. Legislation passed in 2009 (HB 1994) expanded the goal.
Under the goal, investor-owned utilities are encouraged to procure a percentage of the power sold in
Virginia from eligible renewable energy sources. In addition to allowing for Renewable Portfolio
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Standard (RPS) program cost recovery to participating utilities, the Virginia State Corporation
Commission (SCC) will provide a performance incentive in the form of an increased rate of return
(profit) for each “RPS Goal” attained.
The RPS targets are defined as percentages of the amount of electricity sold in 2007 (the "base year"),
minus the average annual percentage of power supplied from nuclear generators between 2004 and
2006. The RPS schedule is as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
4% of base year sales in 2010
Average of 4% of base year sales in 2011 through 2015, and 7% of base year sales in 2016
Average of 7% of base year sales in 2017 through 2021, and 12% of base year sales in 2022
Average of 12% of base year sales in 2023 and 2024, and 15% of base year sales in 2025
Investor-owned incumbent electric utilities can gain approval to participate in the voluntary RPS
program from the SCC if the utility demonstrates that it has a reasonable expectation of achieving the
12% target in 2022.
Eligible energy resources include solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, wave, tidal, and biomass
energy. Hydropower excludes pumped storage, and the amount of wood derived from trees that
would be otherwise used by Virginia lumber and pulp manufacturers is capped at 1.5 million tons
annually. Wind and solar power receive a double credit toward RPS goals. Electricity must be
generated or purchased in Virginia or in the interconnection region of the regional transmission entity.
Existing renewable energy generators are eligible for RPS compliance.
Each investor-owned electric utility must report to the Commission annually by November 1st on its
efforts, if any, to meet the RPS Goals, its overall generation of renewable energy, and any advances in
renewable generation technology.
The existence of this goal and the performance incentive available to the local distribution company,
provide opportunities for VCU to invest in renewable energy projects.
Excess Self-Generated Electricity
If VCU were to purchase and install renewable energy fueled electricity generation equipment
to reduce its purchases from the local distribution company, VCU might generate more electricity
than it needs. Virginia's net-metering law applies to non-residential systems up to 500 kW in
capacity. Net metering is available on a first-come, first-served basis until the rated generating
capacity owned and operated by customer-generators reaches 1% of an electric distribution
company's adjusted Virginia peak-load forecast for the previous year. Monthly net excess generation
(NEG) is carried forward to the next month. At the end of each 12-month period, the customer has the
option of carrying forward eligible excess NEG to the next net metering 12-month period or selling
the NEG to the utility. The amount of credit to be carried forward to a subsequent net metering period
may not exceed the amount of energy purchased during the previous annual period. In the case of
selling the NEG to the utility, the customer must submit a written request to establish a power
purchase agreement with the utility prior to the beginning of the net metering period. The investorowned utility must pay avoided cost.
In April 2009, the Governor signed legislation (HB 2155) making changes to net metering in
Virginia. System size caps for net metering were not changed, but HB 2155 allows utilities to approve
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a higher capacity limit at their discretion. The bill also permits customers that are served on time-ofuse tariffs to participate in net metering. Finally, the bill addresses ownership of renewable energy
certificates. It specifies that the customer-generators own the RECs associated with their renewable
electrical generating facility, and at the time that a customer enters into a power purchase agreement
with the utility, the customer has a one-time option to sell RECs to the utility. This provision does not
preclude the customer and utility from voluntarily entering into an agreement for the sale and
purchase of excess electricity or RECs at any other time. The SCC must issue regulations
implementing HB 2155.
Carbon Offsetting and Use of Carbon Credits
A carbon offset is a reduction or removal of (CO2E) GHG emissions that is used to compensate for, or
offset, emissions from other activities. Offset projects are those that reduce GHG emissions outside
of an entity’s boundary and generate credits that can be purchased by that entity to meet its own
targets for reducing its GHG emissions. Use of offsets is possible because climate change is a nonlocalized problem; GHG spread evenly throughout the atmosphere, so reducing them anywhere
contributes to overall climate protection.
Generally, offsets fall into two categories: 1) emissions reductions or avoidance, such as replacing a
diesel generator with solar panels, and 2) sequestration, or removing GHGs from the atmosphere,
such as planting trees that will absorb CO2 as they grow. There are many different types of projects
that generate offsets in both categories.
The ACUPCC Protocol and Guidelines articulate key principles of high-quality offsets as follows:
1. Real: Offsets are sourced from tangible physical projects with evidence that they have or will
imminently occur.
2. Additionality: The principle that only those projects that would not have happened anyway
should be recognized as carbon credits, i.e., reductions are “surplus” offsets that would not
have occurred under “business as usual” and should not cause leakage or additional emissions
elsewhere.
3. Transparent: All project details are provided, including, among others, type, duration,
standards, measurements, location and price, are all known and made clear to the offset
purchaser and other stakeholders.
4. Measurable: Reductions are objectively quantifiable by peer-reviewed methodologies within
acceptable standard margins of error.
5. Permanent: Reduction streams are unlikely to be reversed, with safeguards to ensure that
reversals will be timely replaced or compensated.
6. Verifiable: Performance of a particular emissions reduction project is monitored by an
independent third-party with appropriate local and sector expertise to assess the expected or
actual emissions reductions.
7. Synchronous: Offset flows are matched to emission flow time periods with rigorous and
conservative accounting that designates boundaries and baseline calculations.
8. Leakage: A net change in anthropogenic emissions by sources of GHGs which occurs
outside the project boundary, and which is measurable and attributable to the project activity.
9. Registered: A third party recording of ownership of an offset that enables clarity in
identifying the chain of custody of credits.
10. Double Counting: Double counting occurs when a carbon emissions reduction is counter
toward multiple offsetting goals or targets, whether voluntary or regulated. It may occur
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whenever carbon reductions are achieved in one point on a supply chain and multiple points
on the chain try to take ownership of the reductions.
11. Retired: The removal of an allowance or offset from the market, after which it cannot be
resold or used to permit emitting, thereby reducing overall emitting.
From VCU’s perspective, it is also important that the agreement to fund or procure carbon credits is
enforceable, i.e., backed by legal instruments that define offsets’ creation, provide for transparency
and ensure exclusive ownership. VCU is currently focusing on carbon offsets as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Target carbon offsets for air travel and include the price of the offset in the price of the airline
ticket.
Encourage purchase of carbon offsets by faculty, staff and students who regularly commute
to VCU by car.
Include price of the carbon offset in the purchase price of a parking voucher; VCU Parking &
Transportation could assist in marketing the vehicle carbon offset program and issue a special
vehicle carbon offset decal.
Purchase carbon offsets for all VCU fleet vehicles.
Customize other carbon offsets to have a local, or regional, impact (i.e., local reforestation
projects).
Collaborate with the City of Richmond to target carbon offsets to increase urban tree canopy
in the city, especially on streets in and around the campuses.
Research possibility of bulk or volume purchase of offsets depending on the demand for a
specific type of offset (e.g., vehicle or reforestation offsets).
Table 3.1 - Listing of Preferred Offset Providers Which Sell to Businesses
Type of Offset
Provider
Type of Offsets
BS= Bio-sequestration
EE= Energy Efficiency
GS= Geo-sequestration
MC= Methane Capture*
RE= Renewable Energy
TR= Transportation
Customers
U.S.
Project
aggregator,
project developer
BS, EE, RE, MC
Business
NP
U.S.
Retailer
RE, EE, BS
Business,
individuals
Climate Trust
NP
U.S.
Retailer, project
developer
RE, EE, BS, MC
Business,
individuals
Community Energy
Inc
FP
U.S.
Retailer
RE
Business,
individuals
Conservation
International
NP
U.S.
Conservation
charity, offers
offsets
BS
Business,
individuals
EcoSecurities
FP
International
Project developer,
project aggregator
RE, GS, MC, EE
Business and
government
NativeEnergy
FP
U.S.
Retailer
RE
Business,
individuals
Name and URL
of Company
Forprofit
or
nonprofit
HQ
Location
Blue Source
FP
Carbonfund.org
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Type of Offset
Provider
Type of Offsets
BS= Bio-sequestration
EE= Energy Efficiency
GS= Geo-sequestration
MC= Methane Capture*
RE= Renewable Energy
TR= Transportation
Customers
U.S.
Retailer
BS
Business,
government
FP
U.S.
Retailer
FP
U.S.
Retailer, project
developer
Name and URL
of Company
Forprofit
or
nonprofit
HQ
Location
Nature
Conservancy
NP
Sterling Plant
Terra Pass
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Business,
university,
individual
RE, EE
Business,
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4.
Prioritization of GHG Emission Reduction Projects
4.1.
Background
In the previous section, potential GHG emission reduction projects were identified in the following
areas:
•
•
•
•
Buildings and Plants
Renewable Energy
Development, Transportation, Environment, and Community
Behavior Change
In order to determine which projects are feasible, they were prioritized based on cost/benefit criteria.
4.2.
Cost-benefit Analysis
Specific projects in these categories were selected and prioritized using a cost-benefit index:
Annual GHG Reduction
Simple Payback
Traditionally, projects may have been ranked based only on financial metrics such as simple payback.
However, the index used in this evaluation considers both financial and environmental benefits. A
higher index indicates greater benefit for a given cost. Prioritized projects are summarized in Tables
4.1 and 4.4, and then discussed in further detail in project tables below. These projects are expected
to be implemented through 2030. Note that all costs are in present dollars and do not account for
inflation.
4.2.1
Behavior Change
In going about our daily lives, each of us contributes to the GHG emissions that are causing climate
change. Yet, there are many things each individual can do to reduce their carbon emissions. The
choices we make in our homes, our travel, the food we eat, and what we buy and throw away all
influence our carbon footprint. VCU will initiate a sustainability pledge program for students and
faculty and staff to encourage conservation-minded behaviors. The program will be informed by
medium to high ranked behavior changes as described below. VCU will provide seed money for
implementing this program and raising awareness of the program through outreach efforts. It is
targeted that the program will result in an overall reduction in energy usage of at least 15%. The
sustainability pledge program is also supported by the implementation of certain VCU strategic
policies; for example, VCU Information Technology has laid out a goal to develop and deploy
“green” computing technologies as part of the University’s sustainability initiative.
As summarized in Section 3.4, surveys of faculty, staff and students were conducted to collect data
regarding potential behavioral changes that could mitigate campus GHG emissions. The survey and
responses were analyzed, making assumptions regarding individual implementation, to develop a
matrix of behavior change actions that includes an estimation of electricity or fuel and GHG
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emissions avoided as a result of the action. The matrix is included as Appendix H, indicating a total
of 81 behavior changes activities. The potential annual GHG reduction values provided in the tables
below indicate a combination of all possible energy conservation, recycling and waste minimization,
transportation and other activities represented in the surveys and therefore represent a maximum
value.
The energy/cost savings and GHG reductions presented for general categories of behavior change in
Table 4.1 are approximations based on estimates of individual behavior changes in Appendix H.
Behavior change projects collectively account for 24,300 MTCO2E in reductions, which corresponds
to a 15% reduction in business-as-usual emissions by 2025. Of this total reduction, the general
behavior change categories of energy conservation, recycling/waste minimization,
transportation/commuting, and other are responsible for 30%, 25%, 30%, and 15%, respectively.
The actual reductions achieved will be highly dependent on the adoption rate for a given behavior
change initiative. The estimates below conservatively assume an adoption rate of less than 50%
among VCU students.
These recommendations can be complemented by VCU’s Goes Green Medallion Program, a green
awards program to recognize individuals that have displayed leadership in behavior change.
Table 4.1 - Behavior Change GHG Emission Reduction Projects
Annual
Electrical
Savings
(kWh)
Annual
Fossil
Fuel
Savings
(Therms)
Annual
Energy
Cost
Savings
($)
6,361,260
69,030
Recycling / Waste Minimization
---
Transportation / Commuting
Other
GHG Emissions Reduction
Projects
Energy Conservation
Estimated Total
Capital
Cost ($)
Annual
GHG
Reduction
(MT
CO2e)
Simple
Payback
(yr)
CostBenefit
Index
1,326,470
250,000
7,290
<1
38,680
---
---
25,000
6,075
---
---
---
953,040
---
50,000
7,290
---
---
---
---
---
25,000
3,645
---
---
6,361,260
1,022,070
---
350,000
24,300
---
---
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Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Conservation-Minded Behavior Change – Energy Conservation
Timeline
0-5 years (near term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Electricity and water usage reduction activities including:
- Power down / turn off electronic devices when not in use
- Take shorter showers
- Participate in a CFL exchange program
- Lower the sash on a laboratory fume hood when not in use
Simple Payback (years)
<1
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$1,326,470
(Present Value)
Project Cost
250,000
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
7,290
6,361,260 kWh
69,030 MMBTU
38,680
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Conservation-Minded Behavior Change – Recycling / Waste Minimization
Timeline
0-5 years (near term)
Project Description
Recycling, reuse and waste minimization activities including:
- Remove yourself from junk mail and catalog lists
- Buy products with minimal packaging and/or recycled content
- Take part in a swap or donation program for reusable goods
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
N/Ap
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
6,075
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
3,248,660 Tons of Waste avoided
N/Ap
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N/Ap
25,000
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Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Conservation-Minded Behavior Change – Transportation / Commuting
Timeline
0-5 years (near term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Activities related to commuting including:
- Keep your car well tuned
- Participate in telecommuting and/or distance learning
- Buy a vehicle that gets good gas mileage or uses alternative fuels
- Avoid unnecessary driving
Simple Payback (years)
N/Ap
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
50,000
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
7,290
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
836,010 Gallons of Gasoline avoided
N/Ap
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Conservation-Minded Behavior Change – Other
Timeline
0-5 years (near term)
Project Description
Miscellaneous activities including academic course and degree program
selection and the following:
- Plant trees, especially shade trees around buildings
- Estimate your personal emissions and take a challenge to reduce them
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
N/Ap
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
3,645
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
N/Ap
N/Ap
56
N/Ap
25,000
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Residential Halls
A proposal currently under consideration by VCU is the establishment of a ‘sustainability floor’ in
one of VCU’s residential halls, in addition to training of VCU Goes Green Reps. This proposal may
include the creation of a sustainability-themed residential village, or EcoVillage, in Brandt and
Rhoads Halls for students, primarily first-year students, enrolled in environmental programs. The
primary goal of the EcoVillage would be to support academic excellence, enrich personal
development, and promote student engagement and involvement. Students who share common
interests would have the opportunity to interact with each other, as well as faculty members both
inside and outside the classroom. The Resident Assistant and Resident Village Assistant would
schedule speakers and develop programming to provide further information related to sustainability
and environmental issues.
VCU would institute VCU Goes Green Reps for all resident halls; these representatives would foster
sustainable behavior among residents, as well as assist with any sustainability programming in the
residences. The representative would introduce the residents under their charge to sustainability
projects and initiatives in the Richmond area and on campus, including exposure to GreenUnity4VCU
and the Student Government Associations and their Green Initiatives. The representatives would
assist their residents in minimizing their environmental impact and, together, the representatives and
residents would collaborate on an annual community service project focusing on sustainability.
4.2.2
Buildings and Plants
Table 4.2 - GHG Emission Reduction Projects Related to Buildings and Plants
Annual
Electrical
Savings
(kWh)
Annual
Fossil
Fuel
Savings
(Therms)
Annual
Energy
Cost
Savings
($)
Capital
Cost ($)
Annual
GHG
Reduction
(MT
CO2e)
Simple
Payback
(yr)
CostBenefit
Index
Wood Memorial Building
271,347
8,982
39,160
416,812
204
10.6
19.3
Tomkins-McCaw Library
642,214
11,060
66,945
1,418,060
429
21
20.4
Oliver Hall (South Wing)
671,068
28,797
73,345
1,267,318
538
17
31.7
Lyons Dental Building
758,067
31,383
125,279
899,111
62
7.15
8.7
James Branch Cabell Library
388,752
1,096
31,480
746,355
230
24
9.6
Rhoads Hall
134,757
18,094
28,639
183,995
173
6.4
27
1,973,555
124,020
375,000
500,000
1,786
2-10
179
4,839,760
223,432
739,848
5,431,651
3,422
---
---
GHG Emissions Reduction
Projects
Lab / Vivarium
(1)
Estimated Totals
57
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
(1) Based on analysis of Smith Building ECMs. Smith Building is already being investigated for
renovation, so savings represent potential opportunities, some of which are already being
considered. Opportunities at Smith Building are not necessarily representative of all lab/vivarium
buildings, due to the magnitude of Smith Building operations.
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Wood Memorial Building Improvements ECM
Timeline
0-5 years (short term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Retro-Commissioning to identify and correct building make-up air deficiency
and review air change rates of exhaust systems to potentially reduce. Apply
chilled water and heating hot water temperature reset control scheme.
Reduced night time lighting and improved lighting efficiency through
application of occupancy sensors.
Simple Payback (years)
10.6
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$39,160
(Present Value)
$416,812 (includes approximately
Project Cost
$225,000 in commissioning)
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 204
Annual Energy Savings
271,347 kWh/925 (1000’s #) Steam
Cost-Benefit Index
19.3
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Tomkins-McCaw Library Improvements ECM
Timeline
0-5 years (short term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Apply DDC system. Replace CV AHU w/VAV units with capacity for full
economizer. Enhance ventilation control from scheduled control scheme to
demand based control scheme. Apply VSD drives to chilled water, hot water
and condenser water pumps. Reduced night time lighting and improved
lighting efficiency through application of occupancy sensors in stack areas and
office/study rooms. Implementation justified based on infrastructure
deterioration of system and equipment reaching end of useful life, not solely
energy savings.
Simple Payback (years)
21
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$66,945
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$1,418,060
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 429
Annual Energy Savings
642,214 kWh /1,139 (1000’s #) Steam
Cost-Benefit Index
20.4
58
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Oliver Hall (South Wing) Improvements ECM
Timeline
0-5 years (short term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Replace primary DDC level controls to terminal level DDC controls. Replace
hot water plants with newer more efficient boilers. Apply chilled water and
heating hot water temperature reset control scheme. Apply VSD to pumping
systems. Reduced night time lighting. Based on large capital expense,
consider applying in phases (boiler, VSDs, DDC) and as part of more
comprehensive capital renovation.
Simple Payback (years)
17
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$73,345
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$1,267,318
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 538
Annual Energy Savings
671,068 kWh /28,797 Therms
Cost-Benefit Index
31.7
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Lyons Dental Building Improvements ECM
Timeline
0-5 years (short term)
Project Description
Replace AHUs which are leaking steam and and at end of useful life. Apply
chilled water and heating hot water temperature reset control scheme. Apply
VSD to pumping systems. Reduced night time lighting and improved lighting
efficiency through application of occupancy sensors.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
59
7.15
$125,279
$899,111
62
758,067 kWh/3,232 (1000’s #) Steam
8.7
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
James Branch Cabell Library Improvements ECM
Timeline
0-5 years (short term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Apply DDC system. Enhance ventilation control from scheduled control
scheme to demand based control scheme. Apply VSD drives to chilled water,
hot water and condenser water pumps. Reduced night time lighting and
improved lighting efficiency through application of occupancy sensors in stack
areas and office/study rooms. Consider phasing application of conservation
measures with DDC application (approximately half cost) applied as part of
comprehensive building renovations.
Simple Payback (years)
24 years
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$31,480
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$746,355
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 230
Annual Energy Savings
388,752 kWh/(1,096) Therms
Cost-Benefit Index
9.6
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Rhoads Hall Improvements ECM
Timeline
0-5 years (short term)
Project Description
Implement demand based ventilation control. Apply chilled water and heating
hot water temperature reset control scheme. Apply VSD to pumping systems.
Reduced night time lighting and improved lighting efficiency through
application of occupancy sensors.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
60
6.4
$28,639
183,995
173
134,757 kWh /18,094 Therms
27
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
Lab/Vivarium Improvements ECM
Timeline
0-5 years (short term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Reviews completed for Smith Building and Massey Cancer Center, both of
which contain lab and vivarium spaces. Comparison shows range of
opportunities between buildings in areas of reduced lab air change rates,
application of energy recovery systems on exhaust systems, application of
variable frequency drives on air and hydronics systems and application of hot
water and chilled water temperature reset and water side condenser
economizers. These buildings are already slated for renovation, but these
ECMs should be considered in review of other similar lab/vivarium spaces.
This project and associated costs and savings are based on analysis of Smith
Building ECMs. Smith Building is already being investigated for renovation, so
savings represent potential opportunities, some of which are already being
considered. Opportunities at Smith Building are not necessarily representative
of all lab/vivarium buildings, due to the magnitude of Smith Building operations.
Simple Payback (years)
<2 to 10
Annual Energy Cost Savings
Up to $375,000 (based on Smith Building
(Present Value)
Assessment)
Project Cost
$250,000 to $500,000
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 1,786
Up to 1,973,555 KWH /10,387 (1000’s #)
Annual Energy Savings
Steam (based on Smith Building
Assessment)
Cost-Benefit Index
178.6
61
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
4.2.3
Renewable Energy
Table 4.3 - GHG Emission Reduction Projects Related to Renewable Energy
GHG Emissions
Reduction
Projects
Biomass projects
Supplemental
biomass
boilers/biomass
gasification
for
central
steam
plant
Photovoltaic
Projects
Canopy
shade
structure with PV
panels on West
Broad St Parking
Deck
Canopy shade
structure with PV
panels on "N"
Parking Deck
Four (4) pole
mounted dual axis
tracking systems
Solar PV project
th
for 8 St Parking
Deck
Solar PV project
for
Broad
&
Belvidere
Solar PV project
for
“D”
Deck
(Faculty & Staff)
Parking Deck
Solar PV project
for Jefferson St
Parking Deck
Solar PV project
for West Cary St
Parking Deck
Solar PV project
for West Main St
Parking Deck
Annual
Electrical
Savings
(kWh)
Annual
Fossil
Fuel
Savings
(Therms)
Annual
Energy
Cost
Savings
($)
Capital
Cost ($)
Annual
GHG
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
Simple
Payback
(yr)
-
2,000,000
1,500,000
-
10,500
-
200,000
-
14,000
-
115
-
184,000
-
12,850
-
100
-
24,000
-
1,700
-
15
-
148,030
-
10,362
1,301,927
85
126
0.67
39,994
-
2,800
389,787
23
139
0.17
461,301
-
32,291
3,707,303
264
115
2.30
72,306
-
5,061
670,794
41
133
0.31
156,451
-
10,952
1,357,723
90
124
0.73
1,073,534
-
75,147
9,258,083
615
123
5.00
62
CostBenefit
Index
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
GHG Emissions
GHG
Emissions
Reduction
Reduction
Projects
Projects
Domestic hot
Solar
water solarThermal
Projects
thermal project for
Domestic
Hot
Ackell
Residence
Water
CenterHeating
System athot
the
Domestic
Monroe
Park
water
solar
Campus
Shaferfor
thermal project
Court Dining Hall
Gladding
Domestic
Residencehot
Center
water
solarhot
Domestic
thermal
project for
water
solar
Bear
Hall
thermal
project for
Domestic hot
Gladding
water
solar Center
Residence
thermal project for
II
McRae
Hall Totals
Estimated
Domestic
hot PV,
for Biomass,
water
solarThermal
Solar
thermal project for
Rudd Hall
Domestic hot
water solar
thermal project for
Warner Hall
Domestic hot
water solar
thermal project for
West Grace
Domestic hot
water solar
thermal project for
Gladding
Residence Center
Suites III
Domestic hot
water solar
thermal project for
Cabaniss Hall
Domestic hot
water solar
thermal project for
Johnson Hall
Domestic hot
water solar
thermal project for
Broad & Belvidere
Domestic hot
water solar
thermal project for
Cary & Belvidere
Annual
Annual
Electrical
Electrical
Savings
Savings
(kWh)
(kWh)
Annual
Annual
Fossil
Fuel
Fossil
Fuel
Savings
Savings
(Therms)
(Therms)
Annual
Annual
Energy
Energy
Cost
Cost
Savings
Savings
($)
($)
Capital Cost
Capital
($) Cost
($)
Annual
Annual
GHG
GHG
Reduction
Reduction
(MT
CO2e)
(MT CO2e)
Simple
Simple
Payback
Payback
(yr)
(yr)
CostCostBenefit
Benefit
Index
Index
-
44,444
50,222
1,128,687
235
23
10.22
-
20,978
23,705
564,626
111
24
4.63
-
25,568
28,892
306,604
135
11
12.27
-
3,566
4,030
85,129
19
21
0.90
-
23,017
26,009
304,603
122
12
10.17
-
9,372
10,591
161,480
50
15
3.33
2,359,616
2,307,419
2,012,548
-
13,475
-
-
-
9,372
10,591
161,480
50
15
3.33
-
3,684
4,163
85,129
20
20
1.00
-
17,280
19,526
381,266
91
20
4.55
-
10,263
11,597
136,626
54
12
4.5
-
23,017
26,009
164,538
122
21
5.81
-
29,872
33,756
339,766
158
19
8.32
-
43,493
49,147
1,060,772
230
22
10.45
-
43,493
49,147
687,360
230
14
16.43
63
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Renewable Energy
Project Title
Supplemental biomass boilers/biomass gasification for central steam plant
Timeline
0-5 years (short term)
Project Description
Addition of biomass boilers or biomass gasification unit to central steam plant
to displace use of natural gas. Expected biomass feedstock includes wood
byproduct (e.g., wood chips) and/or warm season grasses (e.g., switchgrass).
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
64
$1,500,000
10,500
2,000,000 Therms
May 19, 2010
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Renewable Energy
Project Title
Canopy shade structure with PV panels on West Broad Street Parking Deck
Timeline
0-2 years (short term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
The PV Systems on the parking decks are on made up of a single T structure
mounted on the center wall. The center wall will be reinforced as required to
support the structure. The SolarWorld SW230 PV Panels are mounted to the
rails of the structure. The proposed structure on the West Broad Street Deck
is a total of 425 feet long and 33 feet wide and is tilted towards the South
West. 780 Panels make up the roof and the combined output of these panels
is 179.4KWDC. These panels feed into an inverter which will also be set onto
the top floor of the parking deck. This inverter feeds AC power into the Main
Distribution Panel. Fully funded through Public-Private Education and
Infrastructure Act (PPEA).
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$14,000
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 115
Annual Energy Savings
200,000 kWh
Cost-Benefit Index
-
Project Type
Supply Side Renewable Energy
Project Title
Canopy shade structure with PV panels on "N" Parking Deck
Timeline
0-2 years (short term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
The PV Systems on the parking decks are on made up of a single T structure
mounted on the center wall. The center wall will be reinforced as required to
support the structure. The SolarWorld SW230 PV Panels are mounted to the
rails of the structure. The proposed structure is a total of 425 feet long and 33
feet wide and is tilted towards the South West. The proposed structure on NDeck is a total of 303 feet long and 33 feet wide and is tilted towards the South
East. An additional structure will be added to each end of the deck such that
710 Panels will make up the roof and the combined output of these panels is
163.30KWDC. These panels feed into an inverter which will also be set onto
the top floor of the parking deck. This inverter feeds AC power into the Main
Distribution Panel. Fully funded through Public-Private Education and
Infrastructure Act (PPEA).
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$12,850
Project Cost
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 100
Annual Energy Savings
184,000 kWh
Cost-Benefit Index
-
65
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Renewable Energy
Project Title
Four (4) pole mounted dual axis tracking systems
Timeline
0-2 years (short term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Proposed; up to 4 pole mounting dual axis tracking PV systems. The tracker
tilts the panels from east to west throughout the day as well as from NorthSouth over the course of one year. Each system can have up to 3.6KWDC for
a total of 14.4KWDC. Fully funded through Public-Private Education and
Infrastructure Act (PPEA).
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$1,700
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 15
Annual Energy Savings
24,000 kWh
Cost-Benefit Index
-
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
8 Street Parking Deck
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
th
This is a solar photovoltaic (PV) project to supply carbon free electric to the
power grid for use on the VCU campus. 560 panels (128.8kW) are modeled
mounted facing Southwest with ten degree tilt. There is some shading in late
afternoon in the winter (panels are not in this area). Includes canopy, GC and
design cost.
Simple Payback (years)
126
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$10,362
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$1,301,927
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
85
Annual Energy Savings (kWh)
Cost-Benefit Index
148,030
0.67
66
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Bowe Street Parking Deck
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar photovoltaic (PV) project to supply carbon free electric to the
power grid for use on the VCU campus. 1,169 panels are modeled mounted
facing south with zero degree tilt. The deck is 30 degrees from south facing.
There are offices on the top floor. Obstacles on the roof have reduces the area
2.
by 3,400 ft Roof is curved, not recommended.
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Not recommended
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Annual Energy Savings (kWh)
Cost-Benefit Index
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Broad & Belvidere
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
This is a solar photovoltaic (PV) project to supply carbon free electric to the
power grid for use on the VCU campus. 152 panels (35.0kW) are modeled
mounted facing Southeast with ten degree tilt. Includes canopy, GC and
design cost.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
139
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
15
Annual Energy Savings (kWh)
Cost-Benefit Index
39,994
0.11
67
$2,800
$389,787
May 19, 2010
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
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Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
D Deck (Faculty & Staff) Parking Deck
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar photovoltaic (PV) project to supply carbon free electric to the
power grid for use on the VCU campus. 1755 panels (403.7kW) are modeled
mounted facing Southeast with a ten degree tilt. The southern portion of the
deck towards the Clinical Support Center gets afternoon shading so it doesn’t
have panels. Includes canopy, GC and design cost.
Simple Payback (years)
115
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$32,291
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$3,707,303
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
264
Annual Energy Savings (kWh)
Cost-Benefit Index
461,301
2.30
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Jefferson Street Parking Deck
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar photovoltaic (PV) project to supply carbon free electric to the
power grid for use on the VCU campus. 272 panels (62.6kW) are modeled
mounted facing Southwest with ten degree tilt. The deck is sloped. Includes
canopy, GC and design cost.
Simple Payback (years)
133
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$5,061
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$670,794
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
41
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
72,306
0.31
68
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
West Cary Street Parking Deck
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
This is a solar photovoltaic (PV) project to supply carbon free electric to the
power grid for use on the VCU campus. 584 panels (134.3kW) are modeled
mounted facing Southwest with a ten degree tilt. Includes canopy, GC and
design cost.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
124
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
90
Annual Energy Savings (kWh)
Cost-Benefit Index
156,451
0.73
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
West Main Street Parking Deck
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
$10,952
$1,357,723
This is a solar photovoltaic (PV) project to supply carbon free electric to the
power grid for use on the VCU campus. This is the largest carbon reduction
VCU parking deck PV project 4416 panels (1,015.7kW) are modeled mounted
facing West with ten degree tilt and some panels are mounted on the South
wall. Includes canopy, GC and design cost.
Simple Payback (years)
123
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$75,147
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$9,258,083
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
615
Annual Energy Savings (kWh)
Cost-Benefit Index
1,073,534
5.00
69
May 19, 2010
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
E & S (Patient & Visitors) Parking Deck
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar photovoltaic (PV) project to supply carbon free electric to the
power grid for use on the VCU campus The western portion of the desk is in
shadow from 3 PM and in the winter there is shading on the deck from noon to
2 PM. Not recommended due to shading.
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Not recommended due to shading
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Annual Energy Savings (kWh)
Cost-Benefit Index
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Shafer Court Dining Center
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the dining center. The ST system heats and stores one day of
DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 76% of 3,000 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
24
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$23,705
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$564,626
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
111
Annual Energy Savings (therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
20,978
4.63
70
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Bear Hall
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 68% of 525 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
21
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$4,030
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$85,129
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
19
Annual Energy Savings (Therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
3,566
0.90
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
McRae Hall
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 77% of 900 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
15
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$10,591
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$161,480
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
50
Annual Energy Savings (therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
9,372
3.33
71
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Rudd Hall
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 77% of 920 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
15
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$10,591
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$161,480
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
50
Annual Energy Savings (therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
9,372
3.33
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Warner Hall
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 59% of 665 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
20
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$4,163
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$85,129
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
20
Annual Energy Savings (therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
3,684
1.00
72
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
West Grace
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 71% of 2,655 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
20
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$19,526
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$381,266
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
91
Annual Energy Savings (therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
17,280
4.55
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Gladding Residence Center Suites lll
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system will be optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 39% of 2,975 DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
12
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$11,597
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$136,626
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
54
Annual Energy Savings (Therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
10,263
4.5
73
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Cabaniss Hall
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the domestic hot water (DHW)
used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one day of
DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 68% of 7,403 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
21
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$26,009
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$692,802
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
122
Annual Energy Savings (Therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
23,017
5.81
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Johnson Hall
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
A solar thermal (ST) project to supply domestic hot water (DHW) used by the
building residents is limited by the Johnson Hall roof space. It holds a
maximum of 33 panels. The system model forecast estimates 33% of 7,740 gal
DHW will be heated by the sun.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
19
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
158
Annual Energy Savings (therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
29,872
8.32
74
$33,756
$339,766
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Broad & Belvidere
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. The system model forecast 80% of 8,200 gal DHW will be heated
by the sun.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
22
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
230
Annual Energy Savings (Therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
43,493
10.45
$49,147
$1,060,772
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Cary & Belvidere
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. The system model forecast 80% of 8,260 gal DHW will be heated
by the sun.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
14.0
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
230
Annual Energy Savings (Therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
43,493
16.43
75
$49,147
$687,360
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Ackell Residence Center
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 82% of 7,880 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
23
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$50,222
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$1,128,687
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
235
Annual Energy Savings (Therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
44,444
10.22
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Gladding Residence Center
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 47% of 9,640 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
11
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$28,892
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$306,604
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
135
Annual Energy Savings (therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
25,568
12.27
76
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Supply Side Alternative Energy
Project Title
Gladding Residence Center ll
Timeline
10-15 years (long term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
This is a solar thermal (ST) project to supply the majority of domestic hot water
(DHW) used by the building residents. The ST system heats and stores one
day of DHW. Because the building is unoccupied between spring close and fall
opening the system has been optimized for winter output. The system model
forecast 53% of 5,220 gal DHW will be heated by the sun.
Simple Payback (years)
12
Annual Energy Cost Savings
$26,009
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$304,603
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
122
Annual Energy Savings (Therms)
Cost-Benefit Index
23,017
10.17
77
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
4.2.4
Development, Transportation, Environment, and Community
Table 4.4 - GHG Emission Reduction Projects Related to Development, Transportation,
Environment, and Community
Annual
Electrical
Savings
(kWh)
Annual
Fossil
Fuel
Savings
(Therms)
Annual
Energy
Cost
Savings
($)
Capital
Cost ($)
Annual
GHG
Reduction
(MT
CO2e)
Simple
Payback
(yr)
CostBenefit
Index
8,619,500
432,600
634,000
-
4,835
-
-
Street Tree Planting Program
-
-
-
-
12
-
-
Conversion
of
70-acre
Impoundment into Wetlands at
the VCU Rice Center
-
-
-
-
17
-
-
Gardens for Life Bayscapes
and Rain Gardens
-
-
-
15,300
-
-
-
Pollak Building Vegetative Roof
-
-
-
250,000
-
-
-
Reduce Staff SOV Commuting
by 6% Annually
-
-
-
-
250
-
-
Reduce Commuting Population
to No More Than 50% of
Student Body
-
-
-
-
1,530
-
-
Reduce
Faculty
SOV
Commuting by 6% Annually
-
-
-
-
130
-
-
Use Alternative Fuel Buses
-
-
-
15,000
4
-
-
8,619,500
432,600
634,000
665,300
6,778
---
---
GHG Emissions Reduction
Projects
LEED
Policy
Construction
for
New
Estimated Totals
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Demand Side Energy Reduction
Project Title
LEED Policy for New Construction
Timeline
0-5 years (near term)
Project Description
Require a minimum of LEED silver for new construction. Commit to exceeding
ASHRAE 90.1 standards by at least 30% when choosing LEED points.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$634,000
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
4,835
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
8,619,500 kWh; 432,600 therms
Project Type
Sequestration
Project Title
Urban forestry
Timeline
5-10 years (medium term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
Working with the City of Richmond to implement a street tree programs on city
streets along the edges of campus and on those city streets that pass through
campus. Based on planting of 1,000 trees (fast growing hardwood) of 1-inch
diameter. Annual GHG reduction presented in terms of years after planting
because sequestration rate increases as trees grow over time.
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
N/A
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
12
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
N/A
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Sequestration
Project Title
Managed wetlands
Timeline
5-10 years (medium term)
Project Description
Working with the Virginia Aquatic Resources Trust Fund to convert an existing
70 acre impoundment into wetlands at the VCU Rice Center.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
N/A
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
17
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
N/A
Project Type
Sequestration / Stormwater Management
Project Title
Gardens for Life (Student-Initiated Project)
Timeline
0-5 years (near term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
The project involves two low-impact design techniques: (1) “bayscaping” or
conservation landscaping at the Trani Center for Life Sciences Building using
only locally-adapted plants, and (2) a raingarden for runoff control in the Grace
E. Harris Hall. This project will reduce long-term landscape maintenance costs
for VCU. Groundbreaking will occur in mid-spring 2010 and continue through
the fall semester. The project will also provide hands-on learning and research
opportunities for the campus and the community.
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
N/A
(Present Value)
$12,910 (bayscaping)
Project Cost
$2,358 (raingarden)
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
N/A
---
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Sequestration / Stormwater Management
Project Title
Pollak Building Vegetative Roof (Student-Initiated Project)
Timeline
5-10 years (medium term)
Project Description
Implement a green roof on the Pollak Building for stormwater reduction,
provide cooling effect for the building, and as an educational tool for the
campus community.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$250,000
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
---
Project Type
Transportation Alternatives
Project Title
Staff Commuting
Timeline
5-10 years (medium term)
Project Description
Reducing staff SOV commuting emissions by 6% annually through a
combination of converting 3% to transit ridership and 3% to carpooling/lowemission vehicles. Supported by parking discounts for carpoolers and lowemission vehicles.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$70,000
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
250
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
28,000 gallons of gasoline
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Transportation Alternatives
Project Title
Student commuting
Timeline
5-10 years (medium term)
Project Description
Reducing commuting population to no more than 50% of the student body.
Supported by parking discounts for carpoolers, Zipcar program, and enhanced
bicycling program.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$430,000
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
1,530
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
170,000 gallons of gasoline
Project Type
Transportation Alternatives
Project Title
Faculty commuting
Timeline
5-10 years (medium term)
Project Description
Reducing faculty SOV commuting by 6% annually through a combination of
converting 3% to transit ridership and 3% to carpooling. Supported by parking
discounts for carpoolers and low-emission vehicles.
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
$36,000
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
130
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
14,500 gallons of gasoline
Carpooling Program
Increasing the current rate of carpooling is an important aspect of decreasing the carbon footprint
related to single-occupancy vehicles at VCU. VCU Parking & Transportation is implementing a
carpool program in the summer of 2010. VCU will provide incentives that include free parking,
access to free exit coupons for secondary members annually, free emergency rides home, and
preferred parking assignments. Permits will be free for carpooling groups of three or more. This will
be a pilot program that will be reviewed after one year to determine if the objectives are being
achieved. VCU Parking & Transportation will also implement a ZipCar program. ZipCar is a turnkey
program available through online registration for students, staff and faculty which includes gas and
insurance. When utilization warrants adding more cars to the program, Zipcar will add more
vehicles.
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Transportation Alternatives
Project Title
Alternative Fuel Buses
Timeline
5-10 years (medium term)
Project Description
Project Metrics
4.2.5
Use alternative fuel buses for the six VCU Campus Connector routes, including
use of fuel cells, biodiesel, and/or reprocessed waste fryer oil from VCU Dining
Services locations as Biofuel. VCU is working with the Greater Richmond
Transit Company (GRTC) to purchase a hybrid bus or retrofit an existing bus to
accept Biofuel. GRTC is considering use of compressed natural gas (CNG)
and hybrid electric vehicles for other routes in the Richmond area.
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
$400,000 (Cost of CNG bus)
Project Cost
$5,000-$15,000 (Retrofit diesel bus)
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E) 4
400 gallons of gasoline (based on 30,000
Annual Energy Savings
miles/yr, mileage of 3.7 miles/gal, and use
of B5 biodiesel
Cost-Benefit Index
---
Waste Minimization
VCU recognizes existing opportunities for on-campus waste minimization opportunities, including
the placement of additional exterior and interior recycling containers and solar-powered trash
compactors, as well as implementation of a composting and reuse program.
Table 4.5 - GHG Emission Reduction Projects Related to Waste Minimization
GHG Emissions Reduction
Projects
Composting,
Reuse,
Recycling Program
and
Solar Trash Compactors
Estimated Totals
Annual
Electrical
Savings
(kWh)
Annual
Fossil
Fuel
Savings
(Therms)
Annual
Energy
Cost
Savings
($)
Capital
Cost ($)
Annual
GHG
Reduction
(MT
CO2e)
Simple
Payback
(yr)
CostBenefit
Index
-
-
-
-
450
-
-
-
-
270,234
963,647
7
4
2
-
-
270,234
963,647
457
-
-
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Waste Minimization
Project Title
Composting, Reuse, and Recycling Program
Timeline
0-5 years (near term)
Project Description
Various wastes will be accepted by the VA Department of Corrections
(Powhatan Correctional Facility) for processing, recycling and/or reuse,
including food wastes (composting), fryer grease (reuse as Biofuel), and wood
pallets (recycling and reuse). 4,000 pounds of organic waste are processed
daily at the Powhatan facility using Wright Environmental Management invessel composting technology operated by inmates.
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
Project Metrics
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
450
360 tons avoided (food waste composted;
-0.92 MTCO2E/ton)
10,100 gallons avoided (fryer grease
displacing No. 2 fuel oil avoiding 0.138
MMBTU/gal and 73.96 kg CO2/MMBTU)
6 tons avoided (wood pallets recycled; 1.97 MTCO2E/ton)
---
VCU currently has 30 exterior recycling container stations and plans to provide an additional 15
exterior recycling stations, as shown below, at strategic areas across the campus, including both the
MCV Campus and Monroe Park Campus. These stations accept mixed paper, bottles and cans, and
are made of recycled plastic. Through use of these containers, as well as additional positioning of
interior recycling containers, VCU believes that the institution could double its current recycling rate
to 60%.
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
VCU and is considering purchase of another 253 Big Belly Solar trash
compactors for placement campus-wide to replace an existing 366
conventional trashcans. These compactors are solar-powered, although
direct sunlight is not required, with automatic compaction that can reduce
collection frequency by up to 80%. Use of these compactors not only
minimizes the volume of waste collected at VCU, but consequently reduces
the use of VCU vehicles to collect and transport the waste. These
compactors have been used successfully at other locations, including the
City of Philadelphia where use of the compactors has cut down on weekly
collections by two-thirds and reduced annual operating costs by 70% within
one year.
Project Type
Waste Minimization
Project Title
Solar Trash Compactors
Timeline
0-5 years (near term)
Project Description
Providing 253 solar-powered automatic trash compactors with wireless
communication capabilities across the VCU campus for reduction of waste
volume and VCU waste collection vehicle miles traveled.
Project Metrics
4.2.6
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost
3.57
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
7
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
755 gallons of gasoline
2
$270,234 (reduced operating costs)
$963,647
Offsets
Table 4.6 - GHG Emissions Reduction Projects Related to Purchased Offsets
GHG Emissions Reduction
Projects
Annual
Electrical
Savings
(kWh)
Annual
Fossil
Fuel
Savings
(Therms)
Annual
Energy
Cost
Savings
($)
Annual
Project
Cost ($)
Annual
GHG
Reduction
(MT
CO2e)
Simple
Payback
(yr)
CostBenefit
Index
Purchase Offsets for 50-100%
of Air Travel Miles
-
-
-
41,20082,390
4,1208,239
-
-
Purchase renewable energy
credits from Dominion Green
Power Program
-
-
-
600,000
21,000
-
-
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Project Type
Offsets
Project Title
Business air travel
Timeline
5-10 years (medium term)
Project Description
Purchase offsets for air travel for 50-100% of all air travel miles. Project cost is
based on a unit cost of $10/MTCO2E
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost (annual)
N/A
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
4,120 – 8,239
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
N/A
N/A
N/A
$41,200 – $82,390
Project Type
Offsets
Project Title
Renewable energy certificates
Project Description
Purchase renewable energy certificates from Dominion Green Power program
N/A
Project Metrics
Simple Payback (years)
Annual Energy Cost Savings
(Present Value)
Project Cost (annual)
Annual GHG reduction (MTCO2E)
21,000
Annual Energy Savings
Cost-Benefit Index
40,000,000 kWh offset
N/A
86
N/A
$600,000
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
4.3.
Summary
Implementation of these projects is expected to allow VCU to achieve emissions reduction targets
established by state government. The Commonwealth of Virginia’s ten-year statewide energy plan,
The Virginia Energy Plan, has set a target of reducing statewide GHG emissions to 30% below
business-as-usual by 2025. For VCU, this would correspond to an emissions target of 114,484
MTCO2E by 2025, or approximately 50,000 MTCO2E below business-as-usual emissions.
The above portfolio of expected strategies would meet this reduction target for state government, as
represented in the figure below. This would serve as an interim goal toward achieving carbon
neutrality.
Figure 4.1 - VCU Stabilization Wedge Diagram
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
As VCU implements projects, those with a combination of reasonable payback and significant GHG
emissions reduction potential will be considered first. The charts below indicate the basis for the
following implementation schedule:
•
Near term (0-5 years) – Behavior change; funded solar PV projects; central steam plant
biomass study; composting/reuse/recycling program; RECs and offsets
•
Medium term (5-15 years) – Buildings and plants; solar thermal; development, transportation,
environment, and community projects
•
Long term (> 15 years) – Solar PV projects funded through future grants
Figure 4.2 – Project Summary with Emissions Reduction Potential and Simple Payback
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Figure 4.3 – Project Summary with Emissions Reduction Potential and Unspecified Payback
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
5.
Education, Research, and Outreach
5.1
Background
The ACUPCC asks signatories to commit to taking “actions to make climate neutrality and
sustainability a part of the curriculum and other educational experience for all students.” ACUPCC
guidance recognizes that each school will make its own determination of how to fulfill this part of the
Commitment. Furthermore, participating institutions will (1) find their own creative and unique
means of doing so; (2) develop a means of reviewing progress and expanding their reach over time;
and (3) share their efforts with other signatories so that all of the institutions will be able to meet the
ultimate goal to have graduates that can help all of society restore the earth’s climate to a safe level
and achieve sustainability over several generations. (ACUPCC, 2009).
Towards this end, VCU will immediately begin to develop a plan for implementing sustainability
academics across the institution. This process, facilitated by VCU Life Sciences and guided by a
leadership group that is representative of all major units of the University, will begin with the
convening of a sustainability curriculum working group open to all faculty interested in sustainability
academics. This group will incubate ideas on promoting sustainability as a cross-disciplinary,
systems-based part of the educational program of the University. It would be expected that a variety
of course offerings, graduate and undergraduate certificates and eventually stand-alone programs
would emerge from this process.
The working group will also act as a means to facilitate cooperative teaching and research on
sustainability issues across the disciplines. The working group will also have a goal of promoting
cooperative research with VCU’s international partner institutions aimed at reducing carbon
emissions, as a part of the Climate Action Plan’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
This section of the CAP describes VCU’s current educational offerings related to climate change and
sustainability. It also describes planned actions to make climate action and sustainability a part of the
educational experience for all students. Finally, this section explains how the implementation of the
ACUPCC will be integrated into VCU’s educational efforts (e.g., having students or classes update
the GHG inventory), as well as how the entire campus community, including alumni, will be made
aware of VCU’s participation in, and progress toward, implementing the ACUPCC. KPIs will be
identified and their methods for dissemination to VCU stakeholders will be discussed. Further
information on progress towards KPIs is provided in Chapter 6 (Results Tracking and Financing).
5.2
Educational Offerings
VCU has worked with its faculty, staff, and students to identify how its sustainability curriculum can
support the CAP effort. The VCU Year of the Environment (2009-10) program, which shares several
objectives with the present Climate Action Plan, lists several current and proposed courses that are
directly relevant to VCU’s overall sustainability objectives, of which climate action is a key part.
a. The interdependence of humans and the environment
Courses currently offered:
Focused Inquiry I (UNIV 111)
Land Use and Infrastructure Planning (GEOG 302/URSP 302)
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Global Societies: Trends and Issues (SOCY 330/ INTL 330)
Wilderness Education I (HPEX 203)
Ecology (BIOL 317)
Environmental Pollution (BIOL 332/ ENVS 330)
Additional courses that may be offered in the future:
Energy and the Environment (PHYS 315/ ENVS 315)
Environmental Management (GEOG 332/ ENVS 332/ URSP 332)
Wilderness Education II (RPSM 301)
Barrier Island Ecology (BIOL 508)
b. How to assess the effects on humans and on the biosphere of human population
dynamics; energy extraction, production and use; and other human activities such as
agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, building and recreation
Courses currently offered:
Energy! (INSC 201)
Physical Geography (GEOG 203, 204)
Land Use and Infrastructure Planning (GEOG 302/URSP 302)
Environmental Science (BIOL 103/ ENVS 103)
Ecology (BIOL 317)
Environmental Pollution (BIOL 332/ ENVS 330)
Introduction to Marine Biology (BIOL 431)
Conservation Biology (BIOL 510)
Additional courses that may be offered in the future:
Energy and the Environment (PHYS 315/ ENVS 315)
Environmental Management (GEOG 332/ ENVS 332/ URSP 332)
Barrier Island Ecology (BIOL 508)
Water Pollution Biology (BIOL 532)
c. The relationship of population, consumption, culture, social equity and the environment
Courses currently offered:
Energy! (INSC 201)
Global Societies: Trends and Issues (SOCY 330/ INTL 330)
Wilderness Education II (HPEX 203)
Conservation Biology (BIOL 510)
Additional courses that may be offered in the future:
Energy and the Environment (PHYS 315/ ENVS 315)
Environmental Management (GEOG 332/ ENVS 332/ URSP 332)
Wilderness Education II (RPSM 301)
Barrier Island Ecology (BIOL 508)
d. How to apply principles of sustainable development in the context of their professional
activities
Courses currently offered:
Wilderness Education I (HPEX 203)
Biological Concepts (BIOL 101)
Stream Ecology (BIOL 514)
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Wetland Ecology (BIOL 535)
Additional courses that may be offered in the future:
Wilderness Education II (RPSM 301)
Water Pollution Biology (BIOL 532)
e. Technical, design, scientific and institutional strategies and techniques that foster
sustainable development, promote energy and natural resource efficiency and
conservation, prevent and control the generation of pollution and waste, remediate
environmental problems, and preserve biological diversity
Courses currently offered:
Energy! (INSC 201)
Chemistry and Society (CHEM 110)
Land Use and Infrastructure Planning (GEOG 302/URSP 302)
Environmental Science (BIOL 103/ ENVS 103)
Environmental Pollution (BIOL 332/ ENVS 330)
Applied and Environmental Microbiology (BIOL 401)
Ecological Service Learning (BIOL 497)
Conservation Biology (BIOL 510)
Plant Diversity and Evolution (BIOL 512)
Stream Ecology (BIOL 514)
Wetland Ecology (BIOL 535)
Additional courses that may be offered in the future:
Environmental Management (GEOG 332/ ENVS 332/ URSP 332)
Barrier Island Ecology (BIOL 508)
Plant Ecology (BIOL 518)
Water Pollution Biology (BIOL 532)
f.
Social, cultural, legal and governmental frameworks for guiding environmental
management and sustainable development
Courses currently offered:
Land Use and Infrastructure Planning (GEOG 302/URSP 302)
Global Societies: Trends and Issues (SOCY 330/ INTL 330)
Wilderness Education I (HPEX 203)
Environmental Pollution (BIOL 332/ ENVS 330)
Ecological Service Learning (BIOL 497)
Conservation Biology (BIOL 510)
Wetland Ecology (BIOL 535)
Additional courses that may be offered in the future:
Energy and the Environment (PHYS 315/ ENVS 315)
Environmental Management (GEOG 332/ ENVS 332/ URSP 332)
Wilderness Education II (RPSM 301)
g. Strategies to motivate environmentally just and sustainable behavior by individuals and
institutions
Courses currently offered:
Global Societies: Trends and Issues (SOCY 330/ INTL 330)
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Wilderness Education I (HPEX 203)
Conservation Biology (BIOL 510)
Additional courses that may be offered in the future:
Wilderness Education II (RPSM 301)
5.3
Training and Communication
VCU aims to ensure that all stakeholders (students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and others) have the
opportunity to contribute towards the improvement of VCU’s sustainability performance. This
includes establishment of sustainability objectives (including those already in existence as part of
“VCU Goes Green” and other programs, as well as those in this Climate Action Plan); attainment of
these objectives (both one-time and continual); and communication of these objectives to internal and
external stakeholders. These goals can be divided into two parts: (a) internal training for
establishment and attainment of objectives; and (b) communication of motivations, actions, progress,
and implications to internal and external stakeholders.
5.3.1
Training
1. All students and new staff will receive information about VCU’s sustainability program as
part of their orientation/ induction into the VCU community. This includes, but is not limited
to:
a. Concepts of sustainability and their implications;
b. An overview of VCU’s sustainability initiatives including “VCU Goes Green” and
specific objectives therein;
c. Recommended actions for stakeholders to assist VCU in meeting its objectives.
KPI T1: By the beginning of the 2011-2012 academic year, all students and new staff will be
aware of VCU’s sustainability strategy.
2. A specific sustainability training program will be identified and implemented for key VCU
stakeholders (staff, faculty, and student representatives).
KPI T2: By the beginning of the 2011-2012 academic year, all key VCU stakeholders will
have been identified; these stakeholders will have been trained in aspects of sustainability
that they can influence through their policies and actions.
3. Each department or unit within VCU will identify an individual responsible for regular
coordination with the Director of Sustainability, to track progress towards achievement of
department/unit sustainability goals, and to provide feedback to modify/ improve these goals
as appropriate. This individual may be a Department Chair, Manager of a unit, or other
person of similar rank.
KPI T3: By the beginning of the 2011-2012 academic year, each department or unit within
VCU shall have submitted to the Sustainability Committee their nomination for the individual
responsible for coordination of sustainability activities. This individual will also have
received specific sustainability training (see KPI 2).
4. VCU faculty and staff will be empowered to drive activities that are aligned with department,
unit, and/or campus sustainability goals. Specific activities can be determined based on
interactions between the Sustainability Committee and individual departments/ units.
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KPI T4: During the course of the 2011-2012 academic year, the responsible individual for
each department or unit will have devised a list of specific sustainability actions in
consultation with colleagues in his/her department or unit and will have consulted with the
Director of Sustainability on the best use of resources to support these actions.
5. Strategic responsibilities and accountability for sustainability-related issues will be identified
and included in role descriptions of senior administrators at the campus and college
administrative levels. VCU will also investigate the possibility of incorporating relevant
sustainability-related objectives into senior administrators’ individual performance
assessments.
KPI T5: By the beginning of the 2011-2012 academic year, job descriptions with
sustainability-related objectives will be available for all senior officials (defined as
Directors, Associate Vice-Presidents, and Senior Vice-Presidents). In the event that a job
description does not list sustainability, the creator of the description shall outline the reasons
for this omission.
5.3.2
Communication
VCU shall continue to develop and implement a multi-pronged communication plan to inform,
engage, and interact with its internal and external stakeholders. VCU believes that any effective
sustainability plan must have two dimensions: content and distribution. These are summarized in the
table below and subsequently explained further.
Bulletin
Content (↓)/ Distribution (→)
Concepts of sustainability and justification
Context and relevance to VCU
Guiding principles and framework
Specific actions and responsible parties
Costs and benefits
Progress towards results
X
X
X
X
X
X
Live
Remote
X
X
X
X
X
X
Live
In-Person
X
X
X
X
X
X
The content listed in the table covers various modules that are part of VCU’s comprehensive
approach towards sustainability and its communication.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Concepts of sustainability and justification provides a background and scientific context for
taking action on sustainability in general.
Context and relevance to VCU lays out the implications of sustainability for VCU and how it
fits into actions taken by various bodies, e.g., the City of Richmond and the Commonwealth
of Virginia.
Guiding principles and framework provides a top- and mid-level view of the type of actions
that will need to be taken.
Specific actions and responsible parties dives into the details of actions and the VCU faculty,
staff, and students responsible for their execution.
Costs and benefits discusses the tradeoffs that inevitably arise when a major program is put in
place, in as quantitative a manner as possible.
Progress towards results will be the focus of multiple, periodic communications to outline
the extent to which VCU has achieved its objectives.
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The distribution channels listed in the table refer to the methods by which VCU will communicate
the above content to its audience:
•
•
•
Bulletin comprises information disseminated in the form of content on VCU websites, links
to external websites, standardized text messages, flyers, documents, spreadsheets, and
slideshows that will be available to a broad audience. Bulletins will provide stakeholders to
provide a background and contextual understanding for “live” events (see below).
Live Remote comprises information that will be disseminated remotely by key VCU
representatives in the form of webinars, phone conferences, radio broadcasts, and the like.
The information session will typically be followed by an interactive question-and-answer
session. Live remote events are expected to attract a large audience, and will typically be
presented by senior VCU faculty and staff
Live In-Person comprises seminars, information sessions, and “town-hall” style meetings that
will have varying degrees of “formality” and can be held by faculty, staff, or student
representatives within their respective forums. In general, the audience for a live in-person
event will be smaller in size than that for a live remote event, although more interactive due
to the face-to-face nature of the former. It is also possible that certain large-scale events may
(e.g., program milestones, final reports) may fall under a combination of the “live remote”
and “live in-person” categories. This category also includes outreach conducted by VCU
faculty, staff, and students that has a clear sustainability component.
KPI C1: By the end of the 2011-2012 academic year, each major VCU stakeholder will have had the
opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of the motivations, actions, progress, and
implications of VCU’s sustainability commitments.
5.4
Opportunities
A faculty sustainability survey was administered by the Education, Research and Community
Engagement Subcommittee in March 2010. A total of 357 respondents provided input on their plans
to develop and integrate coursework, workshops, research and new academic programs related to
climate change and/or sustainability. In addition, the surveyed faculty provided responses regarding
publications, organizational mentorships and professional development opportunities related to
climate change and/or sustainability.
Although a majority of faculty indicated that neither sustainability nor climate change had been
incorporated or was planned to be incorporated into their course curriculum or program requirements,
or developed as a new academic program, nearly 30% have already incorporated these themes into
their course curriculum and 14% currently have plans to integrate related course work into their
program requirements. Approximately 11% of respondents currently serve as advisors to student
organizations or community partners whose activities support sustainability or climate change issues.
Only a minority of the respondents participates in or is aware of related professional development
opportunities (13.6%), workshops (5.1%), research (12.6%) and publications (9.1%).
These responses indicate a valuable opportunity for faculty at VCU to increase their involvement in
sustainability-related organizations and activities, as well as extend those opportunities to their
students through coursework, research and mentorship. VCU has also identified several opportunities
through research programs:
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•
•
•
Encourage sustainability to be built into new and existing research programs;
Encourage a jump-start of sustainability-related research with dedicated multi-year seed
funding; and,
Work with international VCU partners, many of whom are already engaged in sustainabilityrelated research and education.
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6.
Results Tracking and Financing
Successful implementation of a climate action plan involves flexibility and long-term support from
VCU's leadership and stakeholders. Above all, it involves measuring and reporting progress toward a
specific target, in addition to consideration of the opportunities and constraints for financing climate
actions.
6.1.
CAP Programmatic Oversight
As discussed in Section 1, VCU has established subcommittees within the VCU Sustainability
Committee that have supported the development of this Action Plan. Following the public launch of
this Plan, the VCU Sustainability Committee will oversee the administrative and academic
components of this Plan.
It is expected that the VCU Sustainability Committee will meet periodically in order to:
•
•
•
•
•
Establish an emissions reduction goal for the year
Select emissions reductions projects consistent with the goal
Recommend funding strategies for the selected projects
Evaluate and communicate project performance
Recommend corrective action as needed to keep VCU on track with long-term CAP goals
Overall, as part of its continuing mission, the Committee will aim to:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Maintain the continued alignment of CAP programs and projects with the overall mission of
VCU;
Provide active, informed and independent oversight of the CAP;
Instill a culture of commitment to the CAP across all University functions and members,
including within the social and academic experiences of student life;
Oversee CAP implementation including:
o Seeking establishment of efficient and effective policies/procedures/mechanisms to
support CAP program objectives and project funding which enable CAP
achievement;
o Reviewing program - and as appropriate project – data, both budget and actual, to
track funding, implementation, and measurement/verification and to respond quickly
to needs and changes;
o Assessing the effectiveness of CAP programmatic components, including assessment
of periodic actual and projected results;
o Ensuring data transparency and integrity, including accurate record retention and
publication/communication of actions and results; and
o Recommending CAP program modifications are necessary to assure program
success.
Ensure compliance with all ACUPCC and AASHE requirements; and
Communicate and engage with internal and external stakeholders to further the objectives of
the CAP and its success.
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The operational form of the continuing VCU Sustainability Committee has not yet been determined,
and may be comprised of more than one governance body. However, as stated above, the bodies will
have authority for assuring such things as the ACUPCC-required biennial update of the campus
emissions inventory. VCU will publicly update the inventory biennially, but internally track GHG
emissions at least annually.
Potential emissions reduction projects through 2030 are presented in Section 4. The projects
comprised both infrastructure change and behavior change. A key strategy for assuring progress with
regards to planned emissions reductions will be to assign sponsors for each emissions reduction
project proposed. These project managers and sponsors will have a reporting obligation to the CAP
governance bodies.
6.2.
Financing
Smart financial planning prioritizes cost-effective emissions mitigation measures, schedules them to
maximize synergies and savings allowing some measures to pay for others, identifies obvious and
unusual funding sources, and uses creative financing techniques to make serious climate action
affordable.
Projects, measures, and programs that reduce GHG emissions can be paid for by a variety of funding
mechanisms including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Self-financing performance contracts
Revolving funds that are replenished by savings generated by conservation measures as well
as perhaps annual budget allocations
Grants from government, foundations or business partners
Energy efficiency and renewable energy incentives provided by government or utilities
Borrowed money from tax-exempt bonds or other types of borrowing
Financial instruments specifically designed to promote renewable energy development
Alumni donations and other fundraising
Student activity fees and graduating class gifts.
Affordability is a key factor that weighs heavily on whether a CAP actually gets implemented. This
means minimizing costs while seeking all available dollars. VCU will finance the plan through
traditional mechanisms such as capital project requests, campus and departmental budgets, and
external grants as available, as well as through other non-traditional means. Specific measures and
programs to finance CAP actions are summarized below. The application of these funding sources to
the projects recommended in this Plan are summarized in Appendix I.
6.2.1
Energy Savings Performance Contracts
An Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) is a partnership between a university, or other
organization, and an energy service company (ESCO). The ESCO may conduct a comprehensive
energy audit for the campus and identify improvements to save energy. In consultation with the
university, the ESCO designs and constructs a project or projects to meet university needs and
arranges the necessary financing. The ESCO guarantees that the improvements will generate energy
cost savings sufficient to pay for the project over the term of the contract. A utility energy service
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contract is similar to an energy savings performance contract, but the utility company (instead of an
ESCO) delivers the energy services and pays for upgrades in exchange for payments from the
institution
VCU has previously worked with energy service companies that assist with financing and
implementation of capital projects. VCU is currently working with ESCOs on renewable energy
projects (biomass and solar) funded through Public-Private Education and Infrastructure Act (PPEA)
grants. VCU is partnering with Dominion Virginia Power on the following potential projects:
•
•
•
•
Photovoltaic systems for downtown and leased roof space;
Biomass, geothermal fields, cogeneration and heat storage;
Smart meter deployment to reduce energy consumption and heat from lighting; and,
Charging stations in parking garages.
This financing measure would assist in the implementation of infrastructure change at VCU. The
benefits of these ESCO partnerships include access to private sector expertise and expert technical
support, and flexible and practical contract and procurement processes, to meet emissions reduction
goals.
6.2.2
Revolving Fund
Revolving loan funds can be a very effective financing mechanism for campus sustainability project,
and numerous types of revolving loans have been developed at peer institutions. A revolving loan
fund is both a source of financing and a strategy for managing climate neutrality funds that can
become a generator of new funding. VCU will dedicate specific funds (e.g., investment of new
utilities savings such as would come from installation of photovoltaic systems on VCU parking
decks) to achieving climate neutrality through infrastructure changes; a revolving fund will help
maximize the impact of the initial investment while expanding available resources. With a revolving
loan fund, an initial pool of capital is used to fund a number of projects with a predictable return. The
savings from these projects recapitalize the loan fund, preferably with some fixed premium to allow
the fund to grow. Because it is managed internally, revolving fund managers can loan money with
low interest rates over longer payback periods than a traditional bank loan. This expands the pool of
projects eligible for funding.
Some revolving loan types allow savings from projects (once the loan and fixed premium/interest
have been repaid) to remain in the budget of the unit that implemented the project. Other models
return savings to the general budget. One possibility would be for the revolving loan fund to be
administered by VCU Facilities Management Division (FMD) and capitalized initially (to an agreed
upon level) by money from savings generated by ongoing and future energy conservation projects. A
fixed, negotiated interest rate would allow the fund to grow, with additional savings returning to a
central VCU budget. This hybrid model, also proposed at the University at Buffalo, State University
of New York, would allow VCU FMD to fund new GHG mitigation actions while contributing some
savings to a central VCU budget.
A revolving loan fund is an excellent funding method, but it is not without limitations. Projects must
generate a return fairly quickly if the fund is to finance many projects and have a significant impact
on campus emissions. Bundling projects to include a mix of short and long or uncertain payback
projects will allow managers to tailor the mix of projects to meet the revolving fund’s required
payback timeframe. High-visibility and/or pilot projects may be bundled with reliable performers to
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achieve a high level of economic performance for the complete package. Bundling should be used to
ensure that a broad mix of projects receives support.
Finally, while a revolving fund may be created with the goal of achieving climate neutrality, fund
managers may choose to fund projects that do not directly contribute to climate change mitigation, yet
do result in a reduction in VCU’s utility costs. Fund managers must carefully consider whether such
projects should be funded from a revolving fund or through traditional financing mechanisms.
6.2.3
Green Fees Program
The campus is also evaluating the establishment of a student-driven campus green fund as a
mechanism for supporting student-initiated sustainability projects as well as support projects
implemented by VCU in accordance with the CAP. A green fee survey administered by
GreenUnity4VCU at the student kick-off of the Year of the Environment in November 2009 indicated
that 81% of students polled would be willing to pay a fee. More than half of those polled would be
willing to pay a minimum of $10. In response to the survey results, the Student Government
Associations for both VCU campuses passed a resolution requesting the initiation of a $10 per
semester per student fee.
As currently planned, this fund would include monies generated by student fees, approximately $10
per student per semester, which would support specific climate action and sustainability strategies
involving behavior change. Based on full-time equivalent student enrollment of approximately
30,000 in the baseline year FY 2008, this green fee program would generate annual funds on the order
of $600,000. The VCU Sustainability Committee would create a subcommittee responsible for
developing a set of policies and procedures to receive and disburse the green fees annually.
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7.
References
Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), 2009. CAP Wiki
(Available at: http://www.aashe.org/wiki/climate-planning-guide/education-research-and-publicengagement.php).
American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), September 2007.
Implementation Guide: Information and Resources for Participating Institutions.
ACUPCC, 2009. Education for Climate Neutrality and Sustainability: Guidance for ACUPCC
Institutions (Available at: http://www.presidentsclimatecommitment.org/resources/guidancedocuments/academic).
ACUPCC, 2009. Academic Guidance (Available at:
http://www.presidentsclimatecommitment.org/html/solutions_academics.php).
Business for Social Responsibility, July 2007. Getting Carbon Offsets Right (Available at:
www.bsr.org/reports/BSR_Getting-Carbon-Offsets-Right.pdf).
Business for Social Responsibility, Second Edition, February 2008. Offsetting Emissions: A Business
Brief on the Voluntary Carbon Market (Available at:
http://www.bsr.org/reports/BSR_Voluntary-Carbon-Offsets-2.pdf).
Carbon Offset Research & Education (CORE), Comprehensive List of Offset Providers (Available at
http://www.co2offsetresearch.org/consumer/Providers.html).
City of Richmond, October 2007. Meeting the 2030 Challenge Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions.
City of Richmond, October 2008. Richmond Downtown Plan.
Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy, 2007. The Virginia Energy
Plan.
Commonwealth of Virginia, Governor’s Commission on Climate Change, December 2008. Final
Report: A Climate Change Action Plan.
Commonwealth of Virginia, Office of the Governor, 2007. Executive Order 48 Energy Efficiency in
State Government.
Commonwealth of Virginia, Office of the Governor, 2003. Executive Order 54 Energy Conservation
by State Agencies.
Commonwealth of Virginia, Office of the Governor, 2009. Executive Order 82 Greening of State
Government.
Dominion Virginia Power Website, VA Green Power (Available at www.dom.com/dominionvirginia-power/customer-service/energy-conservation/green-power.jsp and
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www.dom.com/vagreenpower, see also http://leg1.state.va.us/cgibin/legp504.exe?071+ful+CHAP0933).
Ecosystem Marketplace and New Carbon Finance, October 28, 2009. Fortifying the Foundation:
State of the Voluntary Carbon Markets 2009 (Available at:
http://ecosystemmarketplace.com/documents/cms_documents/StateOfTheVoluntaryCarbonMarke
ts_2009.pdf).
Environmental Health & Engineering, Inc., August 19, 2009. Virginia Commonwealth University
Sustainability Program Green Gap Analysis.
European Commission of the European Union, 2007. European Union Emissions Trading Scheme
(EU ETS).
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), 2007. Fourth Annual Assessment Report:
Climate Change 2007 (AR4).
RichmondBizSense.com, April 2009. Q&A: GRTC Chief on a Mission. (Available at:
http://www.richmondbizsense.com/2009/04/13/qa-grtc-chief-on-a-mission).
Sightlines, February 2009. Environmental Stewardship: Measure, Monitor, Benchmark.
United Nations, 1997. Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC).
U.S. Census Bureau. 2009. U.S. Population Projections. Table B1. The total population by selected
age groups. (Available at:
http://www.census.gov/population/www/projections/projectionsagesex.html).
U.S Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, Database of State Incentives for
Renewables & Efficiency, Virginia Incentives/Policies for Renewables & Efficiency,
Interconnection Standards (Available at:
www.dsireusa.org/library/includes/incentive2.cfm?Incentive_Code=VA06R&state=VA&Current
PageID=1&RE=1&EE=1. See also www.eere.energy.gov/de/state_reg_activities_status.html ,
www.irecusa.org/index.php?id=89 ,
www.dsireusa.org/documents/Incentives/VA%20net%20metering%20order.pdf ,
http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?071+ful+CHAP0933 , and http://leg1.state.va.us/cgibin/legp504.exe?061+ful+HB1541ER).
U.S Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, Database of State Incentives for
Renewables & Efficiency, Virginia Incentives/Policies for Renewables & Efficiency, Net
Metering (Available at:
www.dsireusa.org/incentives/incentive.cfm?Incentive_Code=VA02R&re=1&ee=1).
U.S Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, Database of State Incentives for
Renewables & Efficiency, Virginia Incentives/Policies for Renewables & Efficiency, Voluntary
Renewable Energy Portfolio Goal (Available at:
www.dsireusa.org/incentives/incentive.cfm?Incentive_Code=VA10R&re=1&ee=1).
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), 2004. VCU Master Site Plan.
VCU in consultation with BCHW/Hanbury Evans Wight and Vlattas, September 2004. VCU 2020
Master Site Plan Update.
VCU, February 2006. VCU 2020 Vision for Excellence.
VCU, May 2007. Six-Year Infrastructure Plan (2008-2014).
VCU. 2008. Official SCHEV Projected Headcount Enrollments. Fall 2008 through Fall 2013. VCU
Center for Institutional Effectiveness.
VCU. 2009. Center for Institutional Effectiveness (Available at: http://www.vcu.edu/cie/).
VCU. 2009. Sustainability Program (Available at: http://www.vcugoesgreen.vcu.edu/).
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
Executive Summary Addendum
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public research university located in Richmond,
Virginia. VCU is a 143-acre urban campus of approximately 32,000 students and about 10,500
faculty and staff.
“The university is dedicated to educating full-time and part-time students of all ages and
backgrounds in an atmosphere of free inquiry and scholarship so they may realize their full
potential as informed, productive citizens with a lifelong commitment to learning and service.”
In support of the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC),
VCU commits to be carbon neutral (net zero) by 2050. In the fiscal year (FY) 2008 baseline year,
VCU’s GHG emissions were 129,774 metric tons carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2E). After
accounting for institutional growth, VCU’s gross emissions are expected to increase to 169,744
MTCO2E by 2030 and remain there through mid-century under business-as-usual scenarios.
As an interim goal to carbon neutrality, VCU set a target of reducing its GHG emissions to 30%
below business-as-usual by 2025 in accordance with the Virginia Energy Plan (2007).
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For VCU, this would correspond to an emissions target of 111,510 MTCO2E by 2025, or
approximately 50,000 MTCO2E below business-as-usual emissions. This translates to an
annual reduction of 3,000 to 4,000 MTCO2E over a fifteen year period.
VCU is committed to meeting this reduction target for state government institutions. In addition,
VCU intends to achieve net zero GHG emissions by, or as soon after 2050 as technology and
financial considerations will allow. VCU will utilize a portfolio of expected strategies to mitigate
these emissions. These strategies can be broadly divided into three categories:
(iv) Demand Side Management
a. behavior change (as it applies to energy, water, waste, recycling/food services, and
transportation/parking initiatives), which collectively account for up to half of VCU’s
2025 emissions reduction target;
b. building efficiency; LEED for new construction; transportation alternatives; and
waste minimization.
(v) Renewable Energy – biomass; photovoltaics; and solar thermal.
(vi) Offsets – sequestration; purchased renewable energy credits (RECs); and carbon offsets for
air travel.
VCU has begun incorporating sustainability into the curriculum through a range of course offerings
related to the interdependence of humans and the environment, environmental management, and
sustainable development. VCU will further establish key performance indicators for raising
awareness among students and staff of VCU’s sustainability strategy. This will be supported by VCU
Goes Green representatives, individuals responsible for coordination of sustainability activities within
each department or unit at VCU.
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Climate Action Plan
VCU has convened the VCU Sustainability Committee that oversees the implementation of the VCU
Climate Action Plan, and is responsible for:
Establishing an emissions reduction goal for the year
Selecting emissions reductions projects consistent with the goal
Recommending funding strategies for the selected projects
Evaluating and communicating project performance
Recommending corrective action as needed to keep VCU on track with long-term CAP goals
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VCU will utilize available funding sources for implementing emissions reduction projects, such as the
following:
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Public-Private Education and Infrastructure Act grants
Capital project fund
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Revolving Loan Funds
Green Fees
These recommendations will be updated within five years as additional analyses are completed.
VCU will also track progress toward goals through biennial public updates to its GHG emissions
inventory.
The Extended Summary below and the VCU (2010) Climate Action Plan Technical Basis provide a
more detailed technical description of this Plan.
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