Western Washington University
IN-3: Innovation 3

The Green Energy Fee (GEF) Program exists to promote experiential learning opportunities and sustainable practices at Western Washington University. This is done through purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates to offset 100% of the electrical consumption of the university as well as the funding of innovative student-driven projects. Projects funded through the Green Energy Fee Program are evaluated based on their ability to: • Increase Student Involvement and Education • Reduce the University’s Environmental Impact • Create an Aware & Engaged Campus Community The Green Energy Fee Program was implemented in 2010 as a result of a student-led initiative to ensure Western’s commitment to campus sustainability and green energy and to expand student involvement in reducing Western’s environmental impact. Programmatic funding is provided through a mandatory student fee established by the Associated Students that is charged on a per-credit basis. For the year of 2010-2011, there is over $250,000 available for funding. The Green Energy Fee Program began accepting applications on January 21, 2011, and proposals can be submitted by students, staff and faculty from Western Washington University. Applicants are integrally involved with all stages of the project including development, implementation and post-implementation. This high level of participation requires them to not only create and develop their ideas, but to also work with on-campus staff throughout the process and to understand and help manage the practical implications that arise with implementation. Examples of submissions include LED retrofits to be installed in a parking lot on campus, a solar panel array to be installed on an educational building, and installation of several Dyson Airblades in high traffic bathrooms in order to reduce paper towel waste.