The Latest Features of Energy-Efficient Schools

To keep up with the demand for sustainable, dependable energy, energy-efficient schools are designed with the latest features in power usage. Schools are usually high-performance buildings that rely on a steady power source for necessary, basic functions, such as lighting, heating, and cooling. As technology is increasingly being incorporated into the classroom, many other essential functions of learning depend on an uninterrupted power supply as well. With smart design in lighting, HVAC systems, backup power and more, schools of all sizes can rest assured that students will be able to receive a great education without the worry of power loss.

Components of Energy-Efficient Schools

What components affect whether or not a school is considered to be energy efficient? There are a number of factors that help to determine energy efficiency, including:

• Lighting: Proper lighting is a must in a school setting since students and teachers alike should be able to view classroom materials with ease. Lighting is also linked to safety; during an emergency on an overcast day, lighting will help students and staff to safely maneuver throughout the building. LED technology provides excellent solutions for light fixtures in schools, as these bulbs have an extended lifetime and advanced energy performance. Recent studies have shown that daylighting can aid in students’ ability to learn and retain information; implementing smart lighting features such as the ability to dim lights and motorized window shades help to sufficiently light classrooms at all times.
• HVAC Systems: Heating, cooling and ventilation are essential in keeping schools safe and productive environments. Centralized building management systems can operate both lighting and HVAC systems and connect with sensors that make it easier to keep classroom conditions comfortable without wasting an excess of energy.
• Backup Power: Schools need a steady source of power to keep essential operations running at all times. With power outages affecting more and more people in the U.S. every year, onsite power generators are a wise investment for schools. To add redundancy and further protect against any downtime that could result in an interruption in learning, schools may be designed with a parallel generator system.

Energy-efficient features being implemented in schools help to save school districts money while reducing negative impacts on the environment and improving the daily atmosphere for students and staff in school settings.