KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- You might be looking for ways to conserve energy costs this season. UT students have some smart, and green, advice for you.

An orange and white campus is "going green", and it's saving you money in the long run.

"Energy costs have fluctuated a lot recently and it's a wise investment for the university to conserve resources because of that uncertainty in terms of future energy costs," says sustainability manager Gordie Bennett.

Lower energy costs and a greener environment actually go hand-in-hand.

"Certainly everyone in the world needs to be cautious in the direction we're moving in, recycling, making sure we are knowledgable about the things we're doing," says residential hall director Jessica Wilkie.

By conserving energy, UT saved over one million dollars in just one year, partly in thanks to the students. Some have even designated "no power" hours: that means no computer, no TV, and no lights.

"We're all a part of this environment," says grad student Sara Malley. "We live in it, so it's for our own sake. We go outdoors, breath clean air, clean water, becoming a part of the initiative. Each person's contribution can be huge."

As students at UT continue to go green, the campus and community are falling into a cleaner and cheaper future.

Students say they're conserving energy and water now more than ever during tough economic times, benefiting themselves, and their parents' wallets.