UK schools cause the emission of 15.6 million tonnes of CO₂ each year, with energy use accounting for approximately 37% of this total. Climate change is high on the UK government’s agenda, so with rising fuel costs and longer school opening hours there are clear benefits if schools actively manage and optimise their operational energy consumption. This Information Paper is intended to provide school facilities managers, head teachers and caretakers with a simple energy management framework, and to identify energy reducing actions that will save money in the short to medium term.

Contents

Introduction

Energy management framework

- Step 1: Meter readings and analysis

- Step 2: Benchmarking and targeting

- Step 3: Energy reduction action plan

- Step 4: Evaluation and dissemination

Energy use in schools

Heating

- Maintenance strategy and walk rounds

- Building fabric

Lighting

- ‘Switch off’ campaign

- Automated lighting controls

Conclusion

References