Although residental homes have long payback times for solar panels, schools can quickly make the money back (and sell excess energy back to the grid – some could even power local communities, making them independent from the big energy companies). Here are some good tips for schools to save on the rising cost of energy bills.
Be careful of turning down temperatures. Although children have have higher metabolic rates (so are often comfortable in cooler temperatures), this is not always the case for children with special needs.
- Switch from desktop computers to modern laptops, which are more energy-efficient.
- Use timed heating controls, so schools are not heated at night.
- Insulate your school to stop energy escaping, this drastically reduces bills. Most schools quality for grants.
- Install water urinals that are cheaper to run, easy to clean and need almost zero maintenance. Sensor taps turn off when not in use, saving bills and preventing floods.
- Donate unwanted furniture to create space for heat to circular. Draught-proofing can also help.
- Switch off all electronics on standby, and switch off goods not used at weekends (like vending machines).
- In the kitchen, offer raw and quick-cook recipes like salads and stir-fries that use less energy than fried and baked goods. Ensure fridges are well-ventiled with a gap from the wall.
- Take advantage of natural light (which also let in more heat). For example, a storeroom with good light and large windows, may make an alternative classroom.
- Magnetic secondary double glazing uses ready-made panels to the same effect as double glazing. Also reduces condensation and noise.
- Update to modern LED lights, to reduce bills. Add motion sensors, so they turn off when not in use.
- Switch to affordable green energy, then sell excess energy back to the grid. Solar for Schools can offer a cost-neutral photovoltaic system.
- Replace old creaky boilers, which could save up to 10% on energy bills. A big job for a school, but the savings should more than cover it.
