The mall is trying to provide a renewable or alternative energy source to power its electronic sign on Interstate 80. Kinko's has reduced its energy demand by over 14 percent, or 45 million kilowatt- hours per year, by retrofitting branches' lighting systems. In many places, motion sensors turn off lights in unused rooms. The company also has replaced lighted exit signs with LED exit signs, which use less energy than standard bulbs. Kaiser Permanente is looking into building cogeneration plants to supply power at new Folsom and Elk Grove centers.
All new buildings have motion sensors, so the lights go out when no one is in the room.
Kaiser employees have received tips on how to save energy at work and home. They range from turning off unused computers to wearing warm clothes. Sutter Health has also installed motion sensors for lights, and put shade covers over skylights in hospital lobbies to reduce energy use and glare. Instant hot water heaters eliminate the waste of storing large quantities of hot water, said Sutter spokeswoman Nancy Turner. A program sponsored by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District has replaced lighting in the hallways and patient rooms at Sutter Memorial and Sutter General hospitals.