Kicking Off This Year’s Summer Demand Response Program
A Message from Ashley Kossakowski, Director of Energy Management & Sustainability, Buildings and Campus Operations; and Mike Harrington, Director, Sustainability Engagement, Tishman Environment and Design Center
As we settle into warmer weather, we are pleased to share that we’re kicking off the third year of our Demand Response program. This initiative empowers our university to positively impact the city’s electrical grid by promoting cleaner energy use, improving grid reliability, and reducing pollution from peaker plants, particularly in marginalized communities. Read on to learn what to expect during Demand Response events and how you can support these vital sustainability efforts on campus.
Demand Response Events
Demand Response Events are scheduled when the New York State Independent System Operator and Con Edison forecast above-normal temperatures in the city. On those hot days, major energy users like The New School help by reducing electricity consumption during peak demand times. This way, we keep the grid stable, avoid rolling blackouts, and steer clear of activating inefficient peaker power plants that harm our environment.
What to Expect During Demand Response Events
Typically, Demand Response events occur about 3-5 times each summer in the afternoon to early evening, and each event lasts for about 1-4 hours. During these events, we’ll lower non-critical electricity loads in participating buildings. This might mean reduced air conditioning, dimmed lights, and some—but not all—elevator banks might be out of service.
Participating Buildings:
- University Center/Kerrey Hall, 63/65 Fifth Avenue
- Arnhold Hall, 55 West 13th Street
- Alvin Johnson/J.M. Kaplan Hall, 66 West 12th Street
- Sheila C. Johnson Design Center, 2 West 13th Street
- Welcome Center, 72 5th Avenue
- Loeb Hall, 132 East 12th Street
- Residence Hall, 301 1st Avenue
- 39 West 13th Street
Sign Up to Receive Demand Response Event Notification
To keep you informed when an event is called, we’ve created a Google mailing list. Using the link provided, click on ‘Join Group’ and you will receive email notifications whenever a Demand Response event is scheduled. Additionally, you can follow our Demand Response calendar—simply click on the link and select ‘Add’ to subscribe using Google calendars. If you subscribed last year, you’re already on the mailing list and have access to view the calendar.
How You Can Help
Your engagement and energy conservation during these summer events can significantly boost our sustainability efforts. Each building has unique opportunities to shift and reduce electrical usage during peak times.
Here are a few easy ways you can help if you’re in any participating building during an event:
- Keep windows, blinds, and window coverings closed.
- Use fans for cooling and minimize air conditioning use.
- Turn off all unnecessary lights and unplug unused appliances.
- Choose other times to run non-essential appliances, such as laundry machines.
- When possible, take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Check out our Demand Response Day FAQs for tips on minimizing non-essential electric usage before and during event days, and our Demand Response Primer for a deeper dive into this program and how it supports sustainability, environmental justice, and our mission at The New School.
Thank you for being a part of this important initiative and for showing your support as we work towards responsible environmental stewardship. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Ashley Kossakowski or Mike Harrington.