5 top tips and links for schools to reduce energy consumption and save money
Five top tips for schools to reduce their energy costs.
Schools may find that small operational changes, supported by the right tools and guidance, can contribute to more efficient energy use and better allocation of resources. Below are five practical steps and a selection of resources that may support this.
5 top tips:
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Keep furniture and other materials away from radiators and windows, which should improve heat circulation and natural light in classrooms.
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Turn off lights, unplug chargers and IT equipment when they are not in use.
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Use technology to your advantage, by:
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installing motions sensors in less used areas such as toilets, hallways, and storage rooms.
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installing energy-efficient led lights which use less power and usually have a longer life span than traditional bulbs.
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using timers and smart meters to ensure classrooms are heated as pupils arrive and then start to cool down towards the end of the day.
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Conduct an energy audit/ internal audit at school – for more information see our article Do you know your school’s energy consumption?
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Raise awareness at school of good energy saving practices.
Useful resources for schools:
The government has published guidance on how to reduce energy and water use in schools including the following:
There are also some private websites, which may interest schools. For example, schools can find draft application/ letters such as MCS/ Roof Fit school application letters on Ofgem:
MCS School Application Letter (template 4)
ROO-FIT School Application Letter (template 5)
While each school’s circumstances will differ, the measures outlined above may offer a starting point for improving energy efficiency.
If you would like to discuss any aspect of this article further, please contact our Education team on 0113 244 6100. You can also keep up to date by following Wrigleys Solicitors on LinkedIn. The information in this article is necessarily of a general nature. Specific advice should be sought for specific situations. If you have any queries or need any legal advice please feel free to contact Wrigleys Solicitors.
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How Wrigleys can help The Education team at Wrigleys is expert in helping trusts, schools, and other charitable or not-for-profit education organisations govern their activities in an evolving policy and legal landscape. Importantly, we work closely within our own charities, social economy, and employment teams and have a proven track record and expertise on governance, compliance and regulatory requirements. We are therefore ideally placed to advise schools and academy trusts on the legal implications of emerging government policy and what this means in practice. If you or your organisation require advice on this topic, get in touch. |
