Explanation of Graph Components Consumption Pattern The tabs above the graph allow you to view patterns of electricity consumption over different time intervals. When you move your mouse across the graph, the "Current Use" and "Relative Performance" gauges to the right display this kitchen and dining hall's electricity consumption at any instant during the displayed period. When you first select a time period to graph, the reading on this gauge will end by displaying current consumption as of the last minute. Electricity consumption on these graphs is expressed in Watts per eater so that data can be compared among kitchen and dining halls. Back to graph     Current Use Gauge When you move your mouse across the graph, the "Current Use" gauge displays the kitchen and dining hall's electricity consumption at any instant during the selected interval. When you first select a time period to graph, the reading on this gauge will end by displaying current consumption as of the last minute. Electricity consumption is expressed in Watts per eater. Back to graph     Relative Performance When you move your mouse across the graph, the "Relative Performance" bar chart compares electricity consumption by this kitchen and dining hall with consumption by other kitchens and dining halls on campus. When you first select a time period to graph, the reading on this gauge will end by displaying current consumption rates as of the last minute. Electricity consumption is expressed in Watts per eater. If you are eating in the Oberlin kitchen and dining hall with the lowest consumption, congratulations, you are being an excellent steward of the environment! Back to graph     Time Map When you move your mouse across the graph, the "Time Map " gauge shows the change between day and night and indicates the date and time corresponding to the placement of your mouse on the graph. The red marker depicts the position of Oberlin College on the map. On a clear day, light energy is most intense at “high-noon”, when Oberlin is pointed most directly towards the sun. On June 21 (spring solstice), the sun is most directly overhead, day-length is longest, shadows are shortest and light is at its peak intensity for the year. On December 21 (winter solstice), the angle of the sun is greatest, day length is shortest, shadows are longest and light is at its weakest intensity. Electricity consumption, particularly for lighting, is influenced by this seasonality in solar radiation. Back to graph     Energy Use Accumulator When you move your mouse across the graph, the "Energy Use Accumulator" odometer displays the kitchen and dining hall's total accumulated electricity consumption from the beginning of the selected time period up to the point where you move your cursor bar. When you first select a time period to graph, the odometer "plays through" the consumption pattern of this kitchen and dining hall, adding up electricity as it is used. Unlike the graph above, the accumulator depicts total electricity use for the entire kitchen and dining hall rather than per eater use. Back to graph