Southeastern Looks at Summer Energy Savings Hours

Press Release Date: 05-08-2007

Southeastern Oklahoma State University officials are looking to cut energy costs this summer by implementing a 10-hour, 4-day work week beginning June 8 and continuing through July 27.

Under the summer schedule, University employees will continue to work 40 hours a week (Monday–Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Public office hours will remain from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday-Thursday. All University offices will be closed on Fridays.

For the past several years, summer school classes have met on a Monday-Thursday schedule, and that will continue to be the case.

“We have looked at a number of options in an effort to save on our energy costs this summer,” said SOSU Interim President Jesse Snowden. “We have also visited with several other colleges and universities in Oklahoma and Texas that are currently utilizing similar cost-saving schedules. By completely shutting down our buildings on three consecutive days each week, we hope to achieve a substantial amount of energy savings. This schedule will also allow our employees to enjoy the benefits of a three-day weekend over the summer months. Our plan is to implement the schedule this summer and then evaluate its effectiveness.”

Prior to the decision to implement the schedule, a University staff survey indicated that 88 percent of employees were in favor of either a 4-day or 4 1/2 day work week during the summer.