The Energy Office constantly works with businesses and other City entities to find new ways to save energy.

Tucson participates in the Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR program. Since the inception of the program, numerous buildings have earned the ENERGY STAR label and more are in the process to earn the label.

Some of the smaller steps taken include:

• Replacing light bulbs and fixtures with more efficient models
• Using solar panels on bus shelters to illuminate advertising
• Installing “Vending Misers” to reduce energy usage by idling vending machines when buildings are not occupied

The Energy Office also performs duties on a larger scale. All the utility bills for City of Tucson buildings are analyzed by Energy Office personnel. If anomalies are detected, audits are performed to diagnose problems. If major problems are detected, the Energy Office oversees corrective action, from replacing or repairing machinery, to renovating or commissioning entire facilities.

While you City government is doing what it can to save your tax dollars, you can cut your own energy costs by taking simple steps like:

• switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs
• turning off and, if reasonable, unplug appliances when not in use
• “Shut Down” or “Hibernate” your computer, rather than using “Sleep”