In less than two years, the UNC Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee (RESPC) has made incredible progress. This year, the fee is up for renewal for an additional four years at the same $4 per student per semester amount.

The campaign, if successful, will continue to provide roughly $200,000 a year for green energy projects at UNC!

The fund has already been collected for one year, and those monies have been committed to a solar water-heating system for the renovated Morrison Residence Hall, which will be complete in 2006. Future projects may include other residence halls, academic buildings, and off-campus projects.

When the referendum originally passed in February 2003, it stipulated that students would vote on it every two years. This time, the language has been changed such that it will come up for renewal every four years.

The fund is managed by a committee of students appointed by the Student Body President (2 students), the Speaker of Congress (1 chair and 2 members), and the Graduate and Professional Student President (2 members). Any student is eligible to apply for these seats. Members are advised by ex officio members including the Sustainability Coordinator, the Director of Energy Services, the Vice Chancellor of Campus Services, and other faculty and staff. The referendum will be brought to a revote before students every four years to ensure accountability.

Click here to read about the first green energy campaign at UNC.