University of Maine at Presque Isle
Presque Isle, ME
About University of Maine at Presque Isle
UMPI: A pioneer in sustainable higher education, powered by wind and solar.
Nestled in northern Maine, the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) stands out as a beacon of environmental innovation in higher education. This forward-thinking institution has not only transformed its campus operations but has also cultivated an educational environment deeply committed to sustainability, making it an inspiring choice for students passionate about a greener future.
UMPI's journey began in 1903 as the Aroostook State Normal School, a testament to its long-standing dedication to public service and education. Over the decades, it evolved through several name changes, reflecting its growth and integration into the prestigious University of Maine System. This rich history showcases a resilient institution consistently adapting to meet the needs of its community, culminating in its present-day identity as a leader in practical, hands-on learning with a strong ethical compass.
What truly sets UMPI apart is its groundbreaking commitment to renewable energy and fossil fuel divestment. Since late spring 2009, a prominent 600-kilowatt wind turbine has powered a significant portion of the campus, saving substantial costs and drastically reducing carbon emissions. This pioneering spirit extends to a comprehensive divestment from fossil fuels, achieved by 2015, complemented by extensive solar panel arrays, a biomass boiler, and heat pump technology. Students at UMPI aren't just learning about sustainability; they're living and studying within a model of it, gaining invaluable experience and contributing to a genuinely green campus culture.
Key Highlights
- ✦Pioneered sustainable energy by being the first college in Maine and one of few in New England to install a midsize wind turbine.
- ✦The 600-kilowatt wind turbine generates approximately 1 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year.
- ✦Annually saves over $100,000 in electricity charges and reduces an estimated 572 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
- ✦Achieved complete divestment from all fossil fuels on campus by January 2015, following an initiative launched in Fall 2013.
- ✦Installed a 999 voltage solar panel array on the roofs of its major classroom buildings, Folsom and Pullen Halls.
- ✦Utilizes advanced biomass boiler and heat pump technology within its buildings for efficient heating and cooling.
- ✦Originally founded in 1903 as the Aroostook State Normal School, demonstrating a long history of educational service.
Timeline
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