Energy efficiency in schools
Simple changes in how energy is used in schools can lead to large cost savings and reduce carbon emissions. Schools can take action through behaviour change, student engagement, and site-wide audits.
Take a whole-school approach
Energy efficiency works best when the whole school community is involved. This includes:
- students leading energy-saving campaigns and helping monitor energy use
- site managers, kitchen, teaching and support staff
- teachers linking energy data to maths and science lessons
Tools like smart meter data can support student-led projects and curriculum links.
Cut energy use
Schools can reduce energy use by:
- adjusting start-up times for kitchen appliances
- reducing the number of fridges and freezers
- defrosting equipment on a set schedule
- setting clear policies for lights, heating and window
One Essex primary school saved over £16,000 on their electricity bill in one year using these measures and cut their consumption by 24%.
Similarly, gas consumption can be significantly reduced. One school saved nearly 50% on the previous year’s use during December and January, saving nearly £2000 in just two months, by adjusting boiler settings over the holidays and on Sundays and delaying the start and bringing forward the end time by 1 hour on weekdays.
Data from Energy Sparks shows around 45% of school electricity is used outside teaching hours.
Carry out an energy audit
Energy audits help schools identify where savings can be made and support long-term action. Involving staff and students from the start can help generate a commitment to long-term action.
Support with getting started:
- Let’s Go Zero Climate Action Advisors – free audits and advice for schools in Essex as part of their tailored 1 to 1 support with Climate Action Plans
- Eco-Schools Count Your Carbon Calculator – helps schools understand their carbon footprint and find improvements
- ECC School Energy Surveyors have delivered 100+ detailed audits to grant-maintained schools. Capacity is now limited, but maintained schools are invited to register in case resources become available email schoolenergyteam@essex.gov.uk
Free tools and resources from ECC
Below, are examples of detailed energy audit reports to give schools an idea on how to independently improve their energy efficiency. Thank you to the school who have given their permission to share these.
- Energy consumption analysis (PDF, 777KB)
- Energy survey (PDF, 22.2MB)
- Energy survey report (PDF, 17.4MB)
- Thermal images (PDF, 1.09MB)
Top tips and posters to display
Further resources to help your school reduce energy use and support student engagement:
- Energy Sparks – online tool using school smart meter data
- Department for Education energy efficiency guidance