Students identify and explore energy's links to the environment, the community, and the economy. Money saved on energy resources is money that can be spent on educational resources. Schools save energy by making simple changes in building operations and maintenance, and by teaching building users ways to use energy more efficiently. They also save water and reduce waste. While savings will vary based on local energy costs and an individual school's consumption patterns, the potential savings can be significant.
Schools can dramatically reduce energy costs even before building retrofits are installed.
As an added incentive, school districts participating in the Green Schools program agree to return a portion of the savings from the no-cost behavior and operations changes back to the schools that earned them. Utility and state partners can often provide technical assistance in determining appropriate measures to install, and in negotiating the financing arrangements. These savings were realized in an area where electricity rates are the lowest in the country. It's easy to start and maintain a Green School in your community. Read about the Green Schools Programs successes in a press release issued in April 1999.