Office of Energy and Sustainability

Sustainable Energy Management

Oberlin College and Conservatory is committed to carbon neutrality by 2025. This important work can be explored through the following three lenses: occupant resources for energy efficiency, general campus energy programs, and student involvement.

exposed underground pipes in a construction site at Oberlin
Sustainable Infrastructure Program piping that carries low-temperature hot water and chilled water to most buildings on campus.
Photo credit: CREDIT NEEDED

Occupant Resources for Energy Efficiency

Heating and cooling buildings have historically been the college’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. The college has upgraded the heating infrastructure from using fossil fuels to an all-electric geothermal heat pump system to heat and cool buildings. Learn more about how to keep yourself comfortable and energy smart with a variety of resources including videos and schematics of all residence halls.

Occupant Resources

Campus Energy Programs

Oberlin College and Conservatory is committed to carbon neutrality by 2025. The Sustainable Infrastructure Program (SIP) shoulders much of the heavy lifting of this goal by decarbonizing 85% of the campus district energy system loads through the transition from a natural gas boiler system to an electric ground source heat pump system. In addition to the work of the SIP, the college has a robust portfolio of exciting energy management projects and initiatives. 

Campus Energy Programs

Student Involvement in Energy Programs

Students play a key roll in designing and implementing energy programs across campus. From paid internships to class projects, students are the heart and soul of much of this important work.

Student Involvement