Aaminah Matthews
Baltimore Watchdog Staff Writer
Towson University, located in Baltimore, Maryland, is committed to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact. As part of these efforts, the university has implemented various initiatives to optimize its energy usage on campus.
Towson University recognizes the importance of transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. One significant step the university has taken is the installation of a combined heat and power (CHP) plant. This plant, powered by natural gas, generates electricity and captures waste heat to provide heating and cooling to various buildings on campus. By utilizing
this cogeneration system, the university maximizes energy efficiency and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
The campus has installed solar panels on several buildings, generating clean electricity from the abundant Maryland sunshine. These solar installations contribute to the university’s renewable energy portfolio and help reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
“We have over 4000 solar panels on campus across 5 locations totaling over 1.3 megawatts of renewable power,” Director of Energy at Towson University, Stephan A Kolb, C.E.M said. “We are constantly implementing energy projects and energy initiatives across campus to ensure we are reducing energy usage wherever possible.”
Kolb shares that the energy department monitors energy usage across campus in all locations utilizing a comprehensive smart metering network. They conduct trend analysis and various measurement of systems across campus to execute actions based on this data.
Towson University also offers educational programs and workshops on sustainability topics. These initiatives aim to engage the campus community in adopting sustainable practices and reducing energy consumption in their daily lives.
Towson University on average spends between $12 million and $14 million a year for energy and water. Jamie Abell, Assistant Director of Media Relations University Marketing and Communications, sheds more light on how those costs are made available.
“The costs associated with energy are operating costs, which we have state funds for,” she said.
Towson University has also implemented a comprehensive recycling program, encouraging students and staff to recycle paper, plastics, and other materials.
Towson’s commitment to sustainability serves as an inspiration for other institutions and demonstrates the importance of prioritizing clean energy and energy conservation in higher education settings.