The board of directors of the National School Boards Association (NSBA) has unanimously endorsed the EnergySmart Schools (ESS) program developed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). ESS focuses on saving money for the country's schools through reduced energy consumption and creating healthier classrooms. According to the DOE, the typical school district of 3,000 students spends about $400,000 each year on energy-related utilities, while those districts in metropolitan areas may spend $20 million. About 25 percent of the energy used in a typical school is wasted because of energy inefficiencies in its systems and operations. The DOE is helping to improve the situation by helping schools assess energy use, providing school buildings with better lighting, and introducing temperature control technologies. At the same time, the DOE is contributing educational materials that teach young people the advantages and methods of energy efficiency and renewable energy.

- J.J. Siegel

Publication date: 02/09/2004