Energy Solutions: A Guide for Schools and Universities

Maximize your energy-saving by effectively managing your air-conditioning systems.

• Install programmable thermostats
• Install window film and blinds to keep the heat out
• Switch to LED bulbs and decrease the amount of building heat and A/C energy use
• Sign up for HVAC maintenance
• Perform routine maintenance on heating and A/C filters, belts, coils and bearings
• Increase insulation in walls and ceilings when possible
• Install sensory controllers on vending machines or shut them down for a short period

There are many more energy-efficient solutions.

• Purchase equipment that more effectively manages your energy use
• Upgrade to high-efficiency office equipment, including laptops, which use less than a third of the energy of a desktop
• Install load-sensing or occupancy-sensing plug strips to make it easier for your staff to power down
• Install PC network software to automatically control the power setting of networked computers
• Install water-conserving toilets and faucets in bathrooms
• Replace older, less water-efficient equipment
• Install new, water-efficient commercial equipment to minimize water demand
• Change process water system to reuse processed wastewater

Your schools can benefit from even more energy-efficient equipment options.

Motor-driven equipment—such as pumps, air compressors and fans—can consume a large amount of energy. Making motors and compressors more efficient could reduce your energy costs.

Here are some ways to control your costs:

• Install automatic shut-off devices to reduce peak demand
• Install small air compressors for low-use periods
• Install sequencing controls on multiple-unit compressor systems
• Install variable-frequency drives to control motor speed on swimming pool/spa pumps
• Replace old motors with high-efficiency motors
• Practice preventive maintenance on motor systems
• Optimize system efficiency through smart SCADA controls, condensers, premium efficient motors, compressors and compressed air

Your school may already qualify for incentives that could put these energy-saving improvements into effect.

With these programs, receive bill credits for temporarily reducing energy use upon request during periods of high-energy demand. Choose the ones that best fit your operational needs.

• Critical Peak Pricing

Receive energy savings by using smart technology that effortlessly and temporarily reduces the amount of energy your business uses (known as “load reduction”) during a DR event. With Auto-DR, load reduction is automatic and reliable, so it’s easier to participate in DR programs to capitalize on program earnings and help lower your energy costs.

• Install equipment that automates electrical load reduction during demand response events and receive Automated Demand Response Technology incentives.