More and more schools are making the decision to go green in an effort to conserve energy and reduce consumption. Not only does this save the school energy costs, but it also provides students first hand examples in sustainability.
According to the 2008 Building Energy Data Book from the U.S. Department of Energy, educational facilities’ energy consumption is divided into several areas: space heating, space cooling, water heating, lighting and other (including ventilation, cooking, refrigeration and office equipment). Space heating, water heating and lighting are the main energy expenses for schools.
With the development of new schools, building green is a great opportunity to address the areas of energy consumption from the ground up. Incorporating things like Energy Star appliances, solar panels or wind turbines and natural lighting into the design of the school.
For established schools, deciding how and where to conserve energy can be a challenging task. While going green provides a large energy savings over a period of time, major renovations and updates can be expensive. However, not all energy saving methods require a large financial commitment.
Below are five little-to-no-cost energy saving tips for schools.
Space heating and cooling - Increase the air conditioner and lower the heat temperature settings on the thermostat by two or three degrees during school hours and turn the thermostat down for after school hours and weekends.
Water heating - Turn the water heater down to 120° F, from the normal 145° F and insulate the water heater with an insulating blanket.
Lighting - Utilize natural light as much as possible and always turn off lights when not in use. Install motion sensors in rooms where lights are commonly left on, such as bathrooms.
School equipment - Unplug all appliances when not in use and set computers, monitors and copiers to sleep mode.
School exterior - Seal all windows and doors and tint or shade windows to utilize light, but prevent heat and cold air loss.
Every action towards a greener school is beneficial, whether big or small. Conserving energy saves money. This money can be used to hire more teachers, buy more equipment or books, and over all improve students’ education. Additionally students experience the use of green concepts that they can apply in the future, which ultimately benefits us all.
Sources:Building green schoolsEnergy smart schools Energy saving tips Buildings data book