5 Ways to Create an Energy Efficient School
The energy costs that come into the operation of a school building can add up quickly. Heat in the winter, air conditioning in the summer, energy bills for 8-10 hours of lighting a day, school kitchen appliances, and the list goes on and on. However, there are ways to create a more energy-efficient school, either by using energy-saving technology or by hiring the help of staff and students. Here are some ways you can help conserve energy in your school district!
1. INVOLVE STUDENTS
Whether the classroom has student chores or is teaching about the coal and energy industry, let students play an active role in making their school energy efficient. Assign someone the light monitor task, making sure the classroom lights are off when you leave for recess or lunch.
2. MAKE USE OF NATURAL LIGHT
If your school has large windows or sky lights, use that beautiful natural light! Or, on warmer days, close the classroom and take the kids outside to read or play a studio game. This way your school can save money on energy costs while enjoying the sun!
3. SUBSTITUTE FLUORESCENT TUBES AND INCANDESCENT LIGHTS
The first big move your school can make towards energy efficiency is to replace all your traditional lighting with LEDs! LEDs need much less power to power, last up to 50,000 hours, don't require ballast, and have even been shown to help increase learning. You'll reduce your energy costs and maintenance costs by installing LEDs in your school district buildings.
4. INSTALL MOTION SENSORS
Another way to make your LED lighting even more efficient is to install them along with motion sensors. This helps you reduce power consumption when rooms are unoccupied, and eliminates the step of having to remember to turn off the lights.
5. INSTALL SOLAR PANELS
Another big step your district can take to become energy efficient is to install solar panels! Many schools have started solar projects and are getting excellent results. The big note to be taken from this publication is that, if your district plans to install solar panels, be sure to install LED lighting first! The amount of solar panels needed for your building is determined by your energy consumption.
By installing the LEDs, you will drastically reduce your school's energy consumption and therefore reduce the amount of solar panels needed. This saves you money on energy bills and the cost of solar panels!
TYD ELECTRONICS
