How can my school conserve energy?

Question

I have to do an assignment on how my school can conserve energy. I'll need to do a table, divided into two parts: what I know, and what I need to know. Ideas in mind are:
- Installing a half-flush button on toilets
- Using solar energy
- Use a system whereby at a certain point in time, e.g. recess, a "sleep" feature in fans and lights will be activated
What will I need to know about these, as I need to do the table? Please help! And more ways to conserve will also be helpful.

Answer 1

Hi there,

I'm not sure where you are based, but have a look at www.powerofone.ie which will give you a number of practical examples (and looks at the cost of examples) for saving energy.
Some low cost options include
- do not leave equipment (PCs TV etc) on stand-by but switch off totally
- change bulbs to CFL
- re toilets, if replacing cisterns is not feasible, place a brick in tank which will immediately reduce water consumption (check with school caretaker)
- check all washers to reduce tap drips
- open windows rather than using ac to cool room
- close doors to retain heat
- switch off lights when leaving rooms
- install thermostats for heating and set timings appropriately (making sure school is not being heated when empty, so a 7 day timer would be appropriate)
- photocopy only when necessary and use both sides of page
- get pupils to walk / car pool / take bus rather than single passengers in cars
- change energy supplier to green producer (which will not reduce consumption but should be more environmentally friendly)

These are some low cost examples to get you started, Higher cost options include looking at insulation in building and ensure it is adequate, solar panels, getting school involved in recycling programme (which will indirectly reduce costs and global energy use...)

Good luck with your project

Answer 2

Change the school hours so that you start earlier and leave earlier, especially during very warm weather. Will save on air conditioning.

Set thermostats to 78 degrees in the summer, and put fans in classrooms.