Eastern will be installing new energy-efficient soda machines in the coming weeks.

The new machines could save the university $10,000 in yearly energy costs, according to Ryan Siegel, Eastern’s campus energy and sustainability coordinator.

“The new machines are energy-star rated,” Siegel said. “They’ll use more efficient compressors, more efficient lighting, and better insulation.”

Siegel said the new machines would use between one-third and two-thirds as much energy as the machines now used on campus.

They will also offer more drink varieties than the current machines, which offer 10 choices, Siegel said.

Since the new machines provide more drinks, the university will need fewer machines, he said.

That would save energy and space, said Gary Reed, facilities planning and management director.

“Wherever we can, we want to reduce the number of machines, considering reduction in electrical consumption as well as reducing clutter,” Reed said.

He added that the university would be careful not to remove too many machines.

“We’ve got to be mindful of the service aspects.so that students can get refreshments when they need them,” Reed said.

Siegel said the machines will have Panther Card readers. He also said the machines would look like those in Old Main and Lantz Arena.

The energy-efficient machines are provided through Eastern’s new contract with Pepsi, Reed said.

“I think they’re going to be a very good partner in this,” he added.

Workers will replace all the soda machines on campus before spring semester, said Siegel.

“All of the beverage machines will be replaced over Thanksgiving break or Christmas break,” Siegel said.

Joe Astrouski can be reached at 581-7942 or at jmastrouski@eiu.edu.