Saving energy at school and at home

Energy plays a huge role in daily life, and a school day is no exception. Lighting, computers, projectors, appliances, and temperature controls all require energy and all are vital to providing productive school environments. What often gets overlooked, however, is where that energy comes from and how much of it we use. Energy consumption is an important issue both financially and environmentally, and this is an issue that LPS has been addressing for many years.img_6578

Steps have been taken throughout the district to both reduce energy consumption and improve the efficiency of our schools. Energy upgrades include LED lighting, high efficiency windows, occupancy sensors, and geothermal heat pump systems, just to name a few. Geothermal technology is extremely efficient for heating and cooling purposes, because it takes advantage of the constant temperature in the ground to help reduce the need and cost of non-renewable energy. This technology provides the heating and cooling for almost 90% of the total square footage in our buildings throughout the district. These initiatives are able to provide cost savings, reduce our environmental impact, and create healthier spaces for students to learn.

The efforts to reduce energy consumption are not limited to building upgrades. The district also engages the occupants of these spaces in energy saving behaviors, and the fostering of environmental stewardship among staff and students continues to develop and improve. For example, several schools within the district are placing labels on classroom and office light switch panels to remind occupants to turn off the lights when no one is using the room. Similarly, staff is encouraged to limit appliances to centralized locations and unplug or turn off any electronics and appliances in the classroom when they are not in use. Not only do these simple steps help the district save money on utility costs, but they also establish a sense of environmental responsibility for the users of the buildings. The hope is that staff and students will grow accustomed to these sustainable practices at school each day and continue those practices at home.

Wondering what you can do at home? The following are simple, energy efficient actions that everyone can incorporate into daily life. These include little-to-no-cost initiatives that help the environment and reduce energy costs for you:

  • Ensure doors/windows are closed tightly and remain draft-free when heat or air conditioning is running.
  • Unplug, or at least shut down, electronics when not in use. Remember, this includes items such as laptops and computer monitors! Even when idle, most electronics draw power just from being plugged in.
  • Switch from incandescent to the far more efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs.
  • Unless clothes are particularly dirty, wash them in cold water to avoid unnecessary heating.
  • Use smaller kitchen appliances if possible. Microwaves, slow-cookers, and toaster ovens use far less energy than the typical electric stove.
  • Whenever upgrading electronics or appliances, remember to invest in energy efficient models. The larger upfront cost will pay off quickly in energy savings.