Sustainability

OCC's sustainability initiative started over 10 years ago, and has been growing to serve the needs of our students and community ever since. Here are some key elements of our long-term sustainability plan. 

Solar Panels
Solar Panels

We have solar panels on two of our buildings on campus. The panels are used to generate clean energy and teach students in several academic programs, including Architectural Technology and Electrical Technology, about solar panel installation and operation. 

Lights in OCC's parking lot
Energy Efficiency Initiative

All of our exterior lights on our roadways and parking lots have LED lights, which use 75% less energy than standard bulbs. We also have sub-meters for each of our buildings, so we can track electricity and natural gas usage across campus and identify opportunities. 

Rainwater Collection
Rainwater Collection

Mawhinney Hall  is equipped with a rainwater collection system that lets us re-use rain water for things like flushing toilets, and greatly minimizes our water usage. 

Green Wall
Green Wall

Our "Green Wall" in Ferrante Hall is a living, completely self-sufficient structure made of plants.