Conservation Tips From California
For Cities and Counties

Water / Wastewater Systems

• Conduct high energy operations, such as refilling water reservoirs, during off-peak hours
• Look at options for peak hour operations such as shutting down, reducing aeration by two-thirds or running necessary operations from generator power
• Check system efficiency and make any necessary upgrades or replacements
• Install variable frequency drives, equipment "soft starts" and energy efficient motors
• conduct vibration analysis on pumps and other equipment

Alternative Energy Generation

• Add co-generation facilities to sewer treatment plants
• Install solar energy panel to public buildings
• Use grant programs for renewable energy and research, development and demonstration programs

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

• Repair and replace equipment
• Conduct temperature management by setting thermostats at 72 degrees or above
• Remove unused spaces such as council chambers from the main HVAC system

• Retrofit fixtures from magnetic to electronic ballast
• Replace bulbs with energy efficient ones
• Reduce the amount of light provided by removing half of bulbs from fixtures
• Install motion sensors and automatic shut-off switches

• Restrict playing fields to game time only
• Limit lights at athletic facilities
• Turn off every other street light