Evaluation of Power Management in a University Computing Lab Environment

K-State is assessing energy use and looking for ways to conserve. Assessment included the evaluation of energy use in computing labs. During the summer of 2010, an intern with the "Earth, Wind, and Fire: Sustainable Energy for the 21st Century" Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) measured computer power consumption for various user activities and hardware. User activities, computer types, and policies were key to power management. Universities need to consider the future of labs, the education of users, and procurement practices, as well as the time, effort, and cost of power management in decisions about the greening of campus.