Utilities

No. Buildings remain open and safe to occupy. However, they will operate in a low occupancy mode, and you may notice warmer indoor temperatures or reduced airflow.

These are periods when UMB temporarily reduces energy use to help stabilize the regional power grid and lower utility costs.

• Demand response events can occur with as little as 30 minutes’ notice  

• Peak shaving days are typically triggered by hot weather conditions and may begin in the early afternoon (around 2–3 PM)

• Test events: about 3 hours 

• Actual events: can last up to 8 hours  

Yes, you may notice: 

• Warmer temperatures (up to ~78°F) 

• Reduced airflow 

These conditions remain within acceptable comfort and safety ranges.

Yes, but in a controlled way: 

• Airflow is reduced by approximately 30%, activating nighttime settings earlier 

• Labs remain safe and compliant with ventilation requirements  

• Fume hood sashes should be closed and use of volatile and reactive chemicals should cease

No. The following areas are not affected: 

• Biosafety Level-3 labs 

• Vivariums and animal facilities 

• IT/server rooms 

• Life safety systems  

• Critical areas with dedicated HVAC

No. Buildings continue to maintain safe humidity levels (generally 30%–60%) to prevent mold and ensure comfort and health.   

UMB follows energy-efficient standards: 

• 74°F during normal operations 

• Up to 78°F during low occupancy periods   

These align with federal and state energy guidelines while helping reduce costs

If your space has a thermostat, you are expected to adhere to campus temperature standards to support energy conservation efforts.

• Space heaters are not allowed unless provided by O&M due to safety risks and electrical strain 

• Fans may be used if they are safe and do not interfere with building systems

You will receive campus-wide communications (email notifications) at the start of a demand response test or event.

You can help by: 

• Turning off lights and unused equipment 

• Using stairs when possible 

• Closing fume hood sashes in labs 

• Limiting nonessential energy use

No. All measures are designed to: 

• Protect research integrity 

• Maintain safety standards 

• Avoid disruption to critical operations

Energy costs are rising due to peak demand charges, which now make up the majority of electricity costs. Reducing demand helps: 

• Lower costs 

• Improve sustainability 

• Maintain reliable campus operations

Yes. These strategies can reduce peak energy demand by 4–10 megawatts and generate significant cost savings annually.

You can report comfort issues to: 

• Work Control: 410-706-7570  

Temperature fluctuations of ±2°F are normal during operations.

Some strategies like temperature standards are ongoing, while others like peak event reductions are temporary and occur only when needed. 

• Use Energy Star equipment 

• Enable power-saving settings 

• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use 

• Keep vents and thermostats unobstructed 

• Shut fume hood sashes when not in use

No, these events are not a loss of power. The emergency generators will only operate at a loss of power (power outage from the grid.)