A task force assessing options for transforming the heating infrastructure on the Eugene campus is seeking feedback from the University of Oregon community. 

A fall public outreach forum is scheduled in the Erb Memorial Union Crater Lake Rooms on Oct. 24 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. It is co-hosted by the Thermal Systems Task Force, the Office of Finance and Administration, and the Office of Sustainability. No registration is required, and food and beverages will be provided. Additional forums will be held in January. 

UO faculty members, employees and students are invited to attend the open forum to understand the goals of a current study and the options for transforming the university’s heating system in Eugene to achieve sustainability goals. The forum will provide an opportunity for the campus community to ask questions, discuss concerns and provide feedback. 

The task force, comprised of board members, faculty and employee experts, and students, is reviewing options that could reduce emissions from the Central Power Station and improve energy efficiency. The task force was chartered to make a recommendation to President Karl Scholz. The effort is part of the university’s climate action plan. 

An initial study conducted by a national engineering firm with experience overhauling campus heating infrastructure identified several options for transitioning from the current natural gas-fired boilers and steam distribution system. The task force is evaluating the options with the goal of recommending a system that meets resiliency and reliability standards, achieves science-based emissions reduction targets and improves efficiency. 

The UO community forum provides deeper explanation of the initiative and options for consideration as well as an opportunity for attendees to provide feedback and express preferences. The information collected will be provided to the task force and factored into its final recommendation to the president. The task force will send a formal recommendation to Scholz this winter. 

Visit the sustainability website to learn more about the university’s climate action plans and current projects.