Energy efficiency and
environmental issues...

Energy Use Overview

Most energy use results in the production of greenhouse gases and consequentially impacts on global warming. The UK Kyoto commitment is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 12.5% [2008-2012] as compared to 1990 levels.

Much of the environmental impact of a school is related to energy consumption. Energy is the largest controllable outgoing in running school buildings. Energy used for heating, cooling, lighting, operating appliances and the transportation of pupils and staff has a significant environmental impact. The energy used to produce and transport goods used in the school must also be considered and purchasing policies adjusted to comply with minimal impact criteria.

Schools employing an environmental management system should be able to achieve significant reductions in their energy usage with the bonus of beneficial cost savings. Energy auditing is an essential tool for any organisation wishing to control energy and utility costs. The first stage in any process is to establish baseline costings for energy and utility use on site. Utility and energy invoices should be checked regularly and monitoring of usage recorded. By monitoring monthly usage a pattern of consumption can be identified and plans implemented to ensure better management of this process. By controlling expenditure in this area funds can be released for other aspects of the school programme. All schools are potentially low carbon schools. Investment in energy saving equipment is a prerequisite for efficiency but can only support efficient energy management practices.

From January 2006 all new and existing schools will be required to display an energy efficiency certificate for their premises as part of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive from the European Commission. Schools should also use opportunities within the curriculum to explore and develop student understanding of energy issues and promote the greater understanding of sustainability issues.

Schools should also consider purchasing green energy from suppliers which does not attract the Climate Change Levy and should therefore be cost neutral to the school.

The Audit Tool will help you to prioritise actions that will meet these targets and save money for your school.

Energy Use Facts and Figures

UK Schools account for 25% of public sector energy costs. They spend nearly £400 million per year on energy.

The 25% most inefficient schools use more than three times as much energy, per pupil than the most efficient 25%.

The average school could save up to £17.85 per pupil per year by implementing energy efficiency measures. This would result in a 23% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

These are average values per pupil nationally. Values will vary from school to school.