
Stanford Marks 10 Years of Energy System Innovations
The SESI program transformed the university’s energy system into one that’s safe, sustainable, and resilient and serves as a model for the world.
At Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, free cooling is now provided by pulling in outside air when the temperature is less than 65°F. By using fresh air economizers and updating ventilation rates to match new healthcare code standards, the hospital was able to reduce energy demands and save around $500,000 a year.
The hospital is also replacing all lighting with LED fixtures, a project that was 70% complete by June 2023. This initiative is expected to save at least 730,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity – creating a 48% reduction in use – in the first year alone.
The SESI program transformed the university’s energy system into one that’s safe, sustainable, and resilient and serves as a model for the world.
Sergio Lopez used his fellowship to electrify Stanford’s Educational Farm, reducing emissions and leading the transition of small farms from fossil fuel dependency.
Justin West ’25 piloted an occupancy-based HVAC scheduling system in the Gates building, aiming to reduce energy consumption by 20% through adjustments based on real-time data.