You could almost see the light bulb going off over university officials’ heads when they had the bright idea to set off the new energy conservation campaign.

In the face of various budget cuts causing blows to academic, extracurricular and support departments across campus, MSU has been searching for ways to keep its costs down. According to the Office of Campus Sustainability, simply shutting off unused lights and equipment during the day would save about $1 million.

Power is an important concern for MSU budget officials. If every faculty and staff member turned off their computers at night they could save about $300,000 a year. Every degree a thermostat is turned down will save about $175,000 a year, averaged across campus.

Students often leave lights, computers, televisions and radios on when they leave their rooms. On top of a refrigerator (or refrigerators), fans and other various items, the huge drain on MSU’s Simon Power Plant adds up quickly.

Generally it’s a good idea to turn your lights and appliances off when they’re not in use. Of course, it saves energy and lowers bills - regardless of who’s paying them - but it will also save wear and tear on your stuff.

There are many costs involved in energy production, both economic and ecological. In these times it’s greatly beneficial to reduce these costs however possible, and everyone has a responsibility to do their part to help.

If you’re paying your own electricity bill, then you understand the financial importance of saving energy. If you’re not, then you need to be aware of what it costs. We hope MSU’s energy program will raise public awareness about energy conservation, and bring about lower bills and greener environments for everyone to enjoy in the future.