Nineteen Schools Receive Energy Star Labels
The Salt Lake City School District has been informed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that 19 district school buildings have been awarded the prestigious Energy Star Label. These labels, which will be formally presented to each school to be proudly displayed, signify that a school uses 35 percent less energy and generates 35 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than similar schools across the nation. Over the course of their lives, these schools will realize hundreds of thousands of dollars in energy cost savings along with associated reduced environmental impact.
“It’s empowering to receive recognition from the EPA for the district’s commitment to energy efficiency. These efforts are helping our community by keeping more taxpayer dollars in education, while also demonstrating responsible environmental stewardship,” said Greg Libecci, Energy and Resource Manager, Salt Lake City School District.
The most important energy management strategy includes intelligent design, maintenance, and operations. Choosing the latest technology materials that properly insulate the building, designing lighting systems that illuminate space efficiently, and installing efficient environmental controls is just the start. Maintenance issues such as changing out fan system filters, identifying things that aren’t working properly and getting them fixed, and scheduling mechanical systems to shut down at the end of the day add to the savings. Finally, principals, teachers, staff, custodians, and students must be diligent in turning off equipment when it is not needed. These combined efforts make a dramatic difference.
