Energy shortage crisis: BFH implements energy-saving measures
Bern University of Applied Sciences BFH is committed to the sustainable use of energy, especially in view of the impending electricity shortage. It is therefore implementing the package of measures of the Canton of Bern. This page provides information on measures adopted at BFH and their impact on university operations.
State: 21.10.2022
BFH has been concerned with the careful use of energy for some time now. It is therefore conducting research on alternative forms of energy and on the optimisation of energy storage. BFH is thereby contributing to overcoming the energy shortage in the medium term.
Research and courses at bachelor, master and continuing education level
Despite the looming energy shortage, BFH will make every effort to continue research activities and classroom-based teaching at bachelor, master and continuing education level at all times.
Measures taken
Heating
Indoor heating temperatures must be set as follows:
- to 20 degrees in classrooms, lecture rooms and halls, offices, libraries, lounge areas, changing rooms and showers,
- to 17 degrees in multi-purpose halls, sports halls and gymnasiums,
- to 13 degrees in empty or rarely used rooms,
- to 7 degrees in storage premises.
Further energy-saving measures
- During lessons, the classrooms must be briefly ventilated (intermittent full ventilation, no tilted windows). This is also an important anti-Covid measure.
The principle applies: If you open a window, you close it again. Lecturers are responsible for closing the windows in the classrooms. - Windows and shutters must be closed at night and on weekends.
- Lighting in corridors, classrooms and offices shall be turned off when there is sufficient daylight.
- No hot water shall be used in the lavatories when washing hands.
- Private heaters are prohibited, as are private refrigerators and the like.
It is also appealed to responsible use of electrical appliances. - Electronic devices should be unplugged when not in use, especially at night and over the weekend.
- Avoid the use of elevators. Take the stairs instead whenever possible.
Everyone can continue making an important contribution by turning off lights in rooms that are not in use or appliances that do not need to be in use, and by unplugging idle power units.
Contest
BFH launched a contest to build awareness amongst its employees and students and put their knowledge to good use. The winners of our draw are:
- Marie-Noëlle Falquet
- Anne Pfeiffer
- Karin Bärtschi
- Alessia Pacino
- Sandro Nydegger
- Patrick Wyler
- Iris Staubesand
- Olivier Descloux
Each of them won a SONNENGLAS® SOMO Mini solar module worth CHF 35.– The energy shortage crisis team congratulates them all, and thanks all the participants of the contest. An evaluation of all submitted ideas is now being conducted.
