Heating, ventilation, and lighting systems will be curtailed across most campus buildings from the end of business on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, through Sunday, January 4, 2026.
Faculty and staff are encouraged to plan time away from campus to support this energy-saving initiative. Last year’s curtailment reduced energy use by more than 715,000 kWh of electricity and 2,300,000 pounds of steam—preventing the equivalent of 220 metric tons of CO₂ emissions. These savings directly support Berkeley’s carbon reduction goals and reduce utility costs across the campus.
Units are encouraged to participate fully. For operations that must remain active, review the exemption process below
Exemption Requests
Only heat, ventilation, and lighting will be curtailed; electrical service will remain active. All buildings are included in curtailment unless an exemption is approved.
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IMPORTANT: Submit the Request for Exemption Form by Friday, December 5, 2025.
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Approved exemptions will be posted on the Facilities Services website once reviewed.
Exemption criteria include:
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Controlled temperature or humidity areas
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Essential safety, security, or accounting operations
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Labs requiring fume hood operation
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Monitoring or control systems
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Theaters, athletic events, or retail operations
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Server or telecom rooms
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Essential medical facilities
Units interested in extending energy curtailment beyond the standard period are encouraged to contact the Energy Office to coordinate extended or partial setbacks.
For any questions or concerns, please contact the UC Berkeley Energy Office (energyoffice@berkeley.edu).