subscribe for updates
Energy Efficiency
In Washington State, a lot of electricity is derived from hydroelectric (water-powered) sources, and smaller amounts of power are generated by wind, solar, and waste to energy. However, a significant portion of our energy consumption involves burning fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas). This has significant environmental and health consequences, and most scientists agree that greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels contributes to global climate change.
Schools and school districts have a vital role in informing students and staff about energy use and its links to climate change. In addition, using energy more wisely can lead to cost savings. Every dollar saved on energy expenses can go directly to other school programs that need it! In recent years, many schools have upgraded lighting and installed computer-controlled temperature systems to make the buildings more energy efficient.
The people in the school buildings – teachers, students, support staff and others – can also make a big difference in energy use! Energy consumption can be dramatically reduced by adopting energy conservation activities, such as turning off lights, equipment, and appliances in rooms that are not in use, and shutting down all computers and monitors at night.
The Energy Efficiency Assessment (pdf) allows you to find out what types of energy saving practices is already doing, and what areas would benefit from improvement. Use the results to choose a long lasting environmental change.
This Energy Efficiency Assessment Guide (pdf) provides helpful hints and background information about many of the Assessment questions.
The Energy Efficiency Action List (pdf) allows you to implement a number of energy saving activities. Points are earned for each action item. The goal is to pick actions that address energy saving opportunities at your school.
This Energy Efficiency Educator's Guide (pdf) includes vocabulary terms, discussion questions, and other supporting resources to help teachers integrate these issues into their curriculum.