What is an energy curtailment?
A curtailment is a reduction in the amount of electricity provided to Vanderbilt by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The Limited Interruptible Power (LIP) contract between TVA and Vanderbilt allows TVA to periodically limit the amount of electricity sent to Vanderbilt. In return, Vanderbilt receives electricity from TVA year–round at a rate that is lower than the established commercial and residential rates. TVA curtailments usually occur during times of peak energy demand, specifically during hot summer months. Because the on–campus Power House cannot meet 100% of Vanderbilt’s electricity demands, a TVA curtailment during hot summer months poses a significant challenge to Vanderbilt as an institution: how can we satisfy our internal demand for more electricity and cooling during hot summer months? For this reason, energy curtailment notices are sent throughout the university and Medical Center. The ThinkOne Energy Campaign is designed to lead Vanderbilt’s “charge” towards energy
