In many school districts, energy costs are second only to salaries. Conserving energy reduces the school’s greenhouse gas emissions and saves money that can be better spent to educate students. For inspiration, look to Batesville, Arkansas, where a large solar installation paired with new lights, heating and cooling systems, and windows helped the district move from a $250K budget deficit to a $1.8 million surplus.

• Ensure that buildings are heated and cooled efficiently. Update and maintain HVAC systems, insulate buildings sufficiently, and don’t heat or cool rooms that aren’t in use.
• Install solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal heat pumps.
• Use efficient LED lighting. Install motion detectors in rooms that are used intermittently (such as restrooms), and make sure staff and students turn off lights in rooms that aren’t used.
• Turn off computers, projectors, and other equipment when not in use, especially on Friday afternoons or before holidays. Use smart power strips to eliminate energy vampires.
• Take advantage of natural daylight and natural air circulation whenever possible.
• Use energy efficient audio-visual equipment and devices.
• Upgrade kitchen appliances, from refrigerators and ranges to microwaves.
• Turn off the lights in vending machines. (This seems minor, but Seattle Public Schools saved $20,000 a year by doing this.)