The Utilities Production and Distribution Master Plan focused on three main tasks:

1. Evaluating existing production and distribution services
2. Analyzing potential load options
3. Providing universal recommendations

The plan assessed infrastructure requirements to meet future energy needs. The projections were based on campus input regarding space utilization and growth scenarios, as well as further investments in energy conservation. The plan assisted with evaluating how the university can best achieve Illinois Climate Action Plan (iCAP) targets for low-carbon energy sources.

Model scenarios were developed for estimated growth and associated impacts related to forecasts for steam, electricity, and chilled water. The plan also examined production and distribution systems to establish an updated baseline and provide costs to repair, replace, operate, and maintain existing systems. As part of this process, university stakeholders generated more than 200 concepts for review.