Starting in Septermber 2011, a bike sharing program operating out of the Homer Babbidge Library will begin loaning bicycles to faculty, staff, and students. About twenty bikes are available.
Similarly, starting in late September or early October, Hertz on Demand will bring four vehicles to campus – an all-electric car and three Ultra Low Emissions Vehicles (ULEV) – that may be borrowed by anyone over the age of 18 with a clean driving record. Unlike the bikes, which are free, the cars will cost the borrower $8-$9 an hour. The rental fee includes gas, insurance, maintenance, and 24-hour roadside assistance. There is no cost to the University.
The charging station for the all-electric rental car, donated to the University by Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) in return for research on the station’s use, will also provide the power for an all-electric eStar step van the University is purchasing, using a $75,000 grant from the state Department of Transportation. The eStar is cleaner and less expensive to operate than the 10-year-old diesel truck it will replace.
Above: UConn EcoHusky volunteers educate individuals at the Student Union about biodiesel and alternative fuel vehicles.
