Topic Hubs

Alliance to Save Energy: Saving Energy in Schools
Abstract: This portion of the Alliance to Save Energy web site includes best practices for controlling energy costs for school operations and maintenance; school energy efficiency links; energy efficient school construction resources; indoor air quality information; information on school retrofits; and pollution calculators that allow for the estimation of the environmental benefits of an energy efficiency measure.
Source: Alliance to Save Energy
URL: http://www.ase.org/section/topic/schoolenergy/

Arizona Launches Initiative to Benchmark Every K-12 School for Energy Efficiency
Abstract: The Arizona Energy Office, in cooperation with the State of Arizona School Facilities Board, is launching the K-12 Benchmarking Initiative in an effort to benchmark every school building in the state. The goal is for each school to obtain an ENERGY STAR rating. School facilities managers will start by entering energy data for each school into the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, which is a national database of energy consumption in schools. This tool allows school facilities managers to compare the energy efficiency of their schools with others. Using these data and recommendations from the Arizona Energy Office and ENERGY STAR, school managers can develop a plan to prioritize investments in energy efficiency. The next step is to carry out the plan, and finally, to evaluate progress. The ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager guides schools through each of these steps.
Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy State Energy Program
URL: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/state_energy_program/update/pro
ject_detail.cfm/pb_id=1311

Automatic Transition
Abstract: This article by Michael Popke describes different automatic technologies (e.g. automatic flush urinals, automated sensors for environmental control, occupancy sensors, etc.) that may be used at athletic and recreational facilities to save money, energy and water. (PDF Format; Length: 4 pages)
Source: Athletic Business
URL: http://athleticbusiness.com/articles/article.aspx?articleid=
445&zoneid=10

BetterBricks Integrated Design Lab Network
Abstract: Northwest architects and engineers have resources close to home to help them incorporate high performance building practices into their commercial building designs. BetterBricks, in partnership with the universities and electric utilities across the Northwest, supports this regional network of design assistance labs. The lab network serves as a technical resource of credible and unbiased information and education to facilitate energy efficient design to achieve high performance buildings. The labs help building professionals take advantage of the design and financial benefits of energy efficiency to create more productive and comfortable environments. Each lab provides access to information, tools and, resources on integrated design and other high performance building practices, and a variety of advisory services. Regional contact information, as well as specific contacts for Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington are listed.
Source: BetterBricks
URL: http://www.betterbricks.com/DetailPage.aspx?ID=253

Buildings Energy Data Book
Abstract: The Buildings Energy Data Book includes statistics on residential and commercial building energy consumption. Data tables contain statistics related to construction, building technologies, energy consumption, and building characteristics.
Source: DOE Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy
URL: http://www.btscoredatabook.net/

Cathedral High School--Demonstrating Lighting [PDF]
Abstract: This Design Lights case study profiles Cathedral High School, which retrofitted its lighting with assistance from the Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECO). The school used WMECO's Classroom Lighting knowhow Series guide to develop a new and comprehensive lighting design. (PDF Format; Length: 4 pages)
Source: Design Lights Consortium
URL: http://www.designlights.org/downloads/Cathedral%20High.pdf

Driving to Green Buildings: The Transportation Energy Intensity of Buildings
Abstract: The energy employees typically use to travel to and from an average office building during a given time period--its transportation energy intensity--can be a third to twice the energy used to run the building during the same time period. Hence attention to the total ecological footprint of a building must consider more than just the energy efficiency of the building. This September 2007 article from BuildingGreen, Inc.:

Identifies eight factors - largely controlled by planners, designers, developers and regulators - that dramatically affect the transportation energy intensity of buildings. Among them are the "D-factors:" Density, Distance to transit, Diversity of uses, and Design of streetscapes.
Examines strategies for lowering transportation energy intensity through changes in locating buildings and adjacent land uses.
Discusses how to develop and calculate a building performance metric that specifies the transportation efficiency of a building.

Measures to reduce transportation energy use can also have significant additional benefits relating to water runoff, urban heat island mitigation and habitat protection, while creating more vibrant, livable communities. The article also links to an annotated checklist of strategies for achieving transportation-efficient communities that includes: Support transit-oriented development (TOD); Encourage mixed use; Encourage alternative means of transportation; Increase density; Eliminate parking minimums; Change height and floor area ratio (FAR) limits; and Change public and private incentives. Written by Alex Wilson with Rachel Navaro.
Source: Environmental Building News, September 2007
URL: http://www.buildinggreen.com/auth/article.cfm?fileName=16090
1a.xml

Energy Design Guidelines for High Performance Schools--Cool and Dry Climates [PDF]
Abstract: Energy designs included in this 88-page document includes case studies as well as site designs, daylighting, energy-effcicient shells, lighting, ventilation systems, water conservation, transportation and much more.
Source: Energy Star
URL: http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy02osti/29109.pdf

Energy Star for K-12 Districts
Abstract: Estabishing a comprehensive energy management program, getting started with fact sheets, evaluating energy performance and much more will prove helpful for school administrators.
Source: Energy Star
URL: http://www.energystar.gov/?c=k12_schools.bus_school
sk12

Green Schools Checklist: Environmental Actions for Schools to Consider [PDF]
Abstract: This checklist offers tips and resources to help schools identify opportunities to "green" their buildings and operations, ranging from the solid waste they generate, to the indoor environment they provide, to the energy and supplies they consume. Emphasis has been placed on prevention-oriented strategies, which are preferable to dealings with wastes and pollutants after the fact. The benefits of a green school program are outlined and management strategies are included. Sections include: energy use, indoor air quality, solid waste, hazardous materials, mercury use, laboratory waste, mold growth, water consumption, building construction/renovation, purchasing, pest management, groundskeeping, and food service. (PDF Format; Length: 24 pages)
Source: IL Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.state.il.us/green-illinois/green-schools/gree
n-schools-checklist.pdf

Green Schools Project: Using Energy Efficiency to Strengthen Schools
Abstract: The Green Schools program helps schools use energy efficiently through building retrofits, changes in operational and maintenance routines, and changes in the behavior of building users. Students, teachers, custodians, administrators, and community partners all work together toward a common goal--saving energy and money. This web site includes information on how to start an energy efficiency program at your school, news, lesson plans, resources, an online forum for teachers, information for students, case studies, and information on sustainable school construction.
Source: Alliance to Save Energy
URL: http://www.ase.org/section/program/greenschl/

High Performance School Q & A [PDF]
Abstract: High level answers to common questions regarding high performance schools. (PDF Format; Length: 2 pages)
Source: BetterBricks
URL: http://www.betterbricks.com/graphics/assets/documents/QandA_
Final.pdf

Illinois Sustainable Schools Compact [PDF]
Abstract: The Illinois Sustainable Schools Compact program launched on January 31, 2008 features best practices that K-12 schools can voluntarily pursue to achieve greater environmental sustainability. Schools as well as districts can check off up to 12 practices to participate, including things on the list the school or district is already doing. Those who wish to participate should print two copies of the compact, have the principal sign the documents after checking off practices the school is now pursuing and aims to pursue, then mail both copies to: Office of the Lieutenant Governor, Attn: Jon Zirkle, Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph, Suite 15-200, Chicago, IL 60601-3220. Lt. Governor Quinn will sign both copies, keep one on file, then mail one copy back to the school.
Source: Office of the Lt. Governor of Illinois
URL: http://www.standingupforillinois.org/pdf/green/sustainable_s
chool_compact_012908.pdf

LEED for Schools
Abstract: LEED recognizes schools and has developed a schools rating systems that can be adapted to the unique nature of design for K-12 school buildings.
Source: US Green Building Council
URL: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1586

Minnesota Renewable Energy Gateway
Abstract: This Minnesota state web site provides a one-stop shop for information on renewable energy from all over state government. The web site is a cooperative effort of the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Employment and Economic Development and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The site serves as a gateway to all of the valuable information on renewable energy that is currently housed on several different state agency sites. The content is divided into broad search categories including conservation, electricity, heating and transportation. Clicking on any of the links will launch a search that will direct users to the most current and relevant information in state government concerning that topic. Each search will also provide links to other government entities and non-profits related to that topic.
Source: MPCA, MN Depts. of Agriculture, Commerce, & DEED
URL: http://search.state.mn.us/renewable/

National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities (NCEF)
Abstract: Created in 1997 by the U.S. Department of Education, the National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities (NCEF) provides information on planning, designing, funding, building, improving, and maintaining safe, healthy, high performance schools. The NCEF site provides extensive resource lists on various topics, which are grouped into the following broad categories: Preplanning, Planning, Design, School Spaces, School Grounds, Case Studies, Safe Schools, Healthy Schools, High Performance Schools, Technology, Materials & Equipment, School Construction, Financing, Building & Operating Costs, and Maintenance & Operations.
Source: National Institute of Building Sciences
URL: http://www.edfacilities.org/

NRDC's Greening Advisor
Abstract: A guide designed to help any commercial business or organization reduce its environmental impacts. The principles outlined in the guide can help green commercial business operations and may even cut costs by showing how your business can produce less waste, consume less paper and energy, and use resources more efficiently. Topics include: Why Be Green?; Principles and Policies; Air Quality; Construction/Renovations /Interiors; Energy; Paper; Purchasing; Transportation + Accommodation; Waste Management; Water Quality; and Water Use.
Source: Natural Resources Defense Council
URL: http://www.nrdc.org/enterprise/greeningadvisor/

NY-CHPS High Performance Schools Guidelines
Abstract: The State Education Department (SED) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) created these guidelines, known as the "Collaborative for High Performance Schools" (NY-CHPS), to encourage the use of energy efficient design when building and renovating schools. NY-CHPS will help schools develop and maintain learning environments that contribute to improved academic achievement while reducing operating costs and protecting and conserving our natural resources. Schools built according to the NY-CHPS guidelines are durable, easy to maintain, healthy, energy efficient, and comfortable. These improvements contribute to a better learning environment that has been shown to contribute to reduced absenteeism and better teacher and staff retention. Main sections of the guidelines cover the school site, water, energy, materials, indoor air quality, O&M, and "extra credit" considerations. SED and NYSERDA established an Advisory Council to help guide the creation of the NY-CHPS guidelines. That Advisory Council consisted of members of the following groups: the Council of School Superintendents, the Association of School Business Officials, the Association of Educational Safety and Health Professionals, the Superintendents of Buildings and Grounds Association, the New York State Department of Health, the Healthy Schools Network, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, the Association of Energy Engineers, and the American Institute of Architects. The guidelines are available for download in PDF Format (Length: 145 pages) at the URL listed here.
Source: NYSERDA and NY SED
URL: http://emsc33.nysed.gov/facplan/

Oregon School Energy Audits Initiative
Abstract: In January 2011, Governor Kitzhaber directed the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) to launch a comprehensive School Energy Audit Initiative. By conducting comprehensive energy audits of school facilities, the state can lay the foundation for a more comprehensive approach to energy efficiency at Oregon's public schools. ODOE staff members have now contacted all school districts with schools that are eligible for the Governor's School Energy Audit Initiative. The audits will be conducted at no cost to the schools or community as they will be funded by Oregon’s federal stimulus program (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act). The schools to be audited are those that receive their electricity from Oregon's Consumer Owned Utilities and Idaho Power. Schools that receive their electricity from Oregon's Investor Owned Utilities (Portland General Electric and Pacific Power) receive Public Purpose Charges and have had energy audits as directed by Senate Bill 1149.
Source: Oregon Department of Energy
URL: http://oregon.gov/ENERGY/GSI/GSEAI.shtml

Playbook for Green Buildings and Neighborhoods
Abstract: This resource provides strategies, tips and tools that cities and counties can use to take immediate action on decreasing their contribution to climate change. These actions also promote economic development, build healthier communities, and strengthen energy self-reliance. A consortium of more than 20 cities, counties, non-profits, state and federal agencies, and utilities has produced the first phase of this Playbook to help promote the goals set out in the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement. Users can select from Green Buildings, Green Neighborhoods or Green Infrastructure -- and within these topics choose Learn, Plan, or Act options. The Playbook is designed both for communities that are considering taking first steps, as well as for those who want to take existing efforts to a new level. It is evolving as material is improved and added. Extremely easy to browse and navigate, the site is packed with information and photographs. A well-designed search screen has four ways to sift contents of the web site, allowing selection of just the right type of resource, organized under: case studies; model policy, codes and resolutions; presentations and speaking points; reports; software; training and training guides; and resource organizations. Information is also organized under other categories, including principles, approaches, setting goals, indicators, barriers, mainstreaming innovation, leading actions, multiple benefits, policy levers, facts and figures, definitions and FAQs.
Source: Greenplaybook.org
URL: http://www.greenplaybook.org/

Save Energy at School
Abstract: Suggestions for saving energy at schools, tips for implementing a school-wide energy efficiency program and school retrofits will help overcome some barriers and resistance to change.
Source: Sustainability Victoria
URL: http://www.energy-toolbox.vic.gov.au/energy_toolbox/developi
ng_an_energy_management_system/sample_energy_policy.html

School Operations and Maintenance: Best Practices for Controlling Energy Costs [PDF]
Abstract: Prepared by Princeton Energy Resource International, HPowell Energy Associates and the Alliance to Save Energy, this guidebook is designed for K-12 school system business officials and facilities managers. It is designed to meet the specific needs of school district staff for integrating energy efficiency into school building operation and maintenance by not only providing technical information, but also organizational information on barriers, challenges, and the necessary steps required to develop this type of energy management program within the school district organizational structure. The guide also provides case studies and identifies common practices that have been successful in a wide variety of American school districts. (PDF Format; Length: 132 pages)
Source: PERI, HPowell Energy Associates, ASE
URL: http://www.ase.org/uploaded_files/greenschools/School%20Ener
gy%20Guidebook_9-04.pdf

Schools for Energy Efficiency (SEE)
Abstract: Schools for Energy Efficiency (SEE) is a comprehensive program to help K-12 schools save energy and money by changing behavior throughout the district. SEE provides a systemized plan, awareness materials, training, and utility tracking for immediate and sustainable savings. SEE provides schools with the strategies, resources, and support necessary to implement an energy management program. The program is meant to be flexible and can be customized to fit the needs of your school district. Though the program primarily serves school districts in Minnesota, districts from other states are welcome to inquire about the program as well.
Source: Hallberg Engineering, Inc.
URL: http://www.seeprograms.com/

Smart Energy Design Assistance Center
Abstract: The Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) is designed to encourage for-profit small business owners, design professionals, and building contractors to incorporate renewable energy systems and energy conservation practices. SEDAC is sponsored by the Illinois Department of Community and Economic Opportunity and is managed by the School of Architecture at the University of Illinois and the 360 Energy Group.
Source: Smart Energy Design Assistance Center
URL: http://smartenergy.arch.uiuc.edu/html/who.html

St. Catherine of Genoa School--Demonstrating Lighting [PDF]
Abstract: This Design Lights Consortium case study profiles St. Catherine of Genoa School in Somerville, MA. The school retrofitted its lighting and now uses dual-technology occupancy sensors and direct-indirect pendants with T-8 lamps and electronic ballasts. (PDF Format; Length: 4 pages)
Source: Design Lights Consortium
URL: http://www.designlights.org/downloads/St.%20Catherine%20Tech
%20Sheet.pdf

What's Your School Energy Policy?
Abstract: Getting your school district to start saving energy and money may be as simple as putting in writing a few logical energy guidelines.
Source: Watt Watchers of Texas
URL: http://wattwatchers.org/pages/activitiesenergypolicy.htm

The Topic Hub™ is a product of the Pollution Prevention Resource Exchange (P2Rx)

The Energy Efficient Schools and Students Topic Hub™ was developed by:

Great Lakes Regional Pollution Prevention Roundtable
Contact email: glrppr@istc.illinois.edu

Hub Last Updated: 7/6/2011