Sustainability has been at the heart of Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) for more than four decades. From energy-efficient building upgrades to water conservation initiatives and waste reduction programs, ASI has consistently invested in projects that reduce environmental impact and support a greener Cal Poly campus.
While many of these efforts span years of planning and development, all contribute to one goal — creating a more sustainable campus for current and future Mustangs.
Laying the Foundation
ASI’s commitment to sustainability begins with early efforts to improve energy efficiency and promote responsible facility operations. This foundation aligns with Title 24, Part 6 (Energy Code) and CALGreen (Title 24, Part 11), which establish California’s legally mandated minimum standards for energy efficiency and sustainable construction, as well as CSU Executive Order 987 (EO 987), which builds upon these requirements with enhanced systemwide policies for energy management, performance tracking, and higher efficiency standards—protocols that the University Union (UU) has consistently followed since their adoption.
Over time, ASI expanded these efforts to include projects that improved transportation, landscaping, and resource conservation across campus facilities. Early initiatives included the use of electric and hybrid vehicles for campus operations and the installation of drought-tolerant landscaping in the University Union Plaza, helping reduce irrigation demands while maintaining an inviting outdoor space for students.
Building a Greener Campus
As sustainability became more integrated into campus operations, ASI continued investing in projects that reduce resource consumption while improving campus spaces.
Some key initiatives include:
- Low-E window installations in the University Union to improve building energy performance
- Hydration stations in the University Union and Cal Poly Recreation Center to reduce single-use plastic bottles
- LED lighting upgrades that significantly lowered energy use in public spaces
- Solar-powered Big Belly trash compactors in the University Union Plaza that decrease waste collection frequency and energy use
These improvements demonstrate how operational decisions—both large and small—can create meaningful environmental impact.
Investing in Renewable Energy
The latest milestone in ASI’s sustainability journey is the installation of a 520-panel, 210 kW solar array on the University Union rooftop. This solar panel system will be generating renewable energy not only for the building itself but also for the broader campus, helping Cal Poly move closer to its goal of on-site solar generation supplying nearly 30% of total campus electricity consumption.
ASI’s contribution included upgrading the University Union’s electrical distribution system, enabling solar input and redistribution of power. The panels are maintained by REC Solar under a 30-year power purchase agreement, ensuring maximum efficiency and long-term impact.
A Legacy of Environmental Stewardship
From small-scale projects to large infrastructure upgrades, ASI’s sustainability efforts have consistently focused on environmental stewardship and operational excellence. Electric campus vehicles, low-flow plumbing, energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction, and solar installations all reflect ASI’s commitment to powering a greener, more sustainable future for Cal Poly.
The University Union solar array is the latest example of how ASI continues to lead by example, showing that thoughtful investment in sustainability creates lasting benefits for both people and the planet.
Want to explore the full history of ASI’s sustainability efforts? Visit the ASI Sustainability Timeline for the complete list of projects and milestones towards sustainability efforts.
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