The University of Texas at Austin’s utility system is operated by Utilities & Energy Management (UEM). UEM generates electricity and steam, provides high-voltage electrical distribution, produces and distributes chilled water, and maintains elevator and escalator systems. Below are some of our main services.
Operations
Operations generates electric power, chilled water, heating steam and hot water, and other auxiliary utility services for main campus buildings connected to distribution networks. The Operations' project management team facilitates early planning of utility infrastructure serving UT Austin campus construction projects through close coordination with the campus, Capital Planning and Construction (CPC), and the City of Austin. The team also advocates for the consistent adoption of UEM design guidelines, standards, and specifications across all UT System and campus projects. This team also provides administrative management of large utility expansion projects, maintenance and renovation, and refurbishment projects to ensure these projects are built to the university’s standards of quality and efficiency while being on time and within budget.
View our UEM Organizational Charts to learn about our structure, divisions, and staff members. These charts are updated quarterly. For questions or concerns, please email ana.castillo@austin.utexas.edu.
Utilities Distribution
Utilities Distribution maintains and repairs all system components: transformers, switches, streetlights, sports lighting, breakers, and associated equipment. Utilities Distribution also services emergency standby electrical systems, protective devices and controls. Additionally, this team provides oversight of the exterior electrical distribution system for the university’s main campus, off-campus student housing, Pickle Research Campus and Whitaker Fields. The electrical distribution network includes all of the equipment from the Power Plant or incoming power supply to each building’s main power switchgear. Utilities Distribution also provides and reviews specifications for both modernization and new construction projects.
This team operates and maintains a network of distribution piping, valves, meters and other components to provide the following services:
- potable, irrigation, reclaimed, and deionized water
- steam
- natural gas
- compressed air as well as a network of recovered water
- wastewater and stormwater collection systems
iew our UEM Organizational Charts to learn about our structure, divisions, and staff members. These charts are updated quarterly. For questions or concerns, please email ana.castillo@austin.utexas.edu.
Power Systems, Controls & Operational Technology
Focused on operational needs and includes the following units: Power Systems, Process Controls, Operational Technology, Revenue Metering and Monitoring.
View our UEM Organizational Charts to learn about our structure, divisions, and staff members. These charts are updated quarterly. For questions or concerns, please email ana.castillo@austin.utexas.edu.
Engineering and Technical Services
This team provides technical expertise, project oversight, and innovative solutions to support engineering projects, risk management, and utilities modernization. We leverage data analytics tools like Tableau, Power BI, GIS, and BIM to enhance decision-making and infrastructure planning. By driving key initiatives such as project support, safety programs, and apprenticeship development, we ensure continuous process improvement and alignment with UEM’s strategic goals.
View our UEM Organizational Charts to learn about our structure, divisions, and staff members. These charts are updated quarterly. For questions or concerns, please email ana.castillo@austin.utexas.edu.
Finance and Administrative Services
Finance and Administrative Services provides centralized support functions and services to the operational divisions of UEM in the areas of strategic initiatives, administrative planning, communications, budget preparation, safety programs and safety training.
View our UEM Organizational Charts to learn about our structure, divisions, and staff members. These charts are updated quarterly. For questions or concerns, please email ana.castillo@austin.utexas.edu.