The UMD MPIRG chapter is helping promote efficient energy usage through the help of staff and faculty members. The “Power Bandits” is a group of students who help rearrange a faculty member’s office to plug all appliances into a smart power strip, which they say will save the school money and help cut down on wasteful power usage. Phantom power, which is power used by appliances even when not in use, can rack up an energy bill if one forgets to unplug appliances when they are not being used, especially with older devices. Computers, computer speakers, microwaves, coffeemakers and printers are a few of the many culprits.
The MPIRG bandits are planning an elaborate getaway with faculty members’ phantom power to help promote efficient energy usage on and off campus. With a simple rearrangement of an office, a smart power strip can effectively “unplug” all appliances when the computer shuts down.
Anyone with questions is encouraged to stop by the Garden Room every Tuesday at 5 p.m. to learn more and join MPIRG for their weekly meetings.
BY BENJAMIN LAFOND
MPIRG Member