Sustainable Energy Funds (SEFs) are an accounting mechanism used to improve energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of an institution. Many universities across the country have developed SEFs as a means to reduce energy consumption and help meet sustainability goals. Clemson would benefit from a SEF in the same way.
SEFs work by starting with some initial seed money, which is invested in efficiency projects such as lighting, HVAC, or control system improvements. The savings generated from these projects are routed back into the fund, creating a positive feedback loop. Because the fund continually grows, it is possible to complete ever-larger efficiency projects that will help Clemson meet its sustainability goals.
How SEF Works
Clemson’s Sustainable Energy Fund is an innovative way to fund “green” projects on campus. The SEF is geared towards reducing energy consumption campus wide, curtailing Clemson’s carbon footprint, and to foster sustainability initiatives on campus. The SEF will accept sustainable project ideas from the Clemson University community through the Project Proposal form. Once submitted, the SEF team will decide whether or not to fund the project based upon its potential to reduce energy consumption, and net a positive economic return for the University. Our goal is to create a medium for the Clemson University community to see their sustainable project ideas become a reality. We also have a visual guide that describes the process.