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The University of Oregon and Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB) are facing criticism from climate activists over a pilot project to increase the operation of a natural gas turbine on campus, which could raise gas consumption by 65% during winter months. Critics, including the Sierra Club, argue the initiative contradicts the university's 2010 Climate Action Plan and lacks public engagement, undermining renewable energy efforts. The project allows EWEB to collect data while operating the turbine in January and February, amid recommendations to electrify the campus boiler system.