Schools
Schools may be able to reduce energy costs by 10 to 20% by using energy more efficiently. There may also be some opportunities to use renewable energy instead of fossil fuels such as wood energy in boilers, or solar water heating to heat swimming pools.
Energy in schools is mainly used for:
- Heating and cooling
- Lighting
- Equipment such as computers
- Hot water
- Swimming pools.
You can start saving now by:
- Setting shared goals for energy saving, including students and staff in the process
- Only using equipment (including lighting, heating and office equipment) when the classroom or office is in use
- Making one person responsible for switching off equipment over weekends and holidays
- Keeping on top of low-cost repairs and improvements, such as fixing hot water leaks, hot water pipe lagging, and draught stopping
- Following the maintenance schedules for equipment such as boilers
- Setting a date each year (for example the end of term) to tune up and calibrate school equipment such as thermostats and occupancy sensors.
Schools also have a role to play in helping their students and their communities learn about energy efficiency and renewable energy, by demonstrating best practice. Many schools are building energy efficiency into their curriculum.
Energy efficient schools guide
For a detailed guide to how you can be more energy efficient, download Energy efficient Schools: A guide for trustees, principals, teachers, students, caretakers, and energy managers.
Funding available
Your school may be eligible for some funding to implement energy efficiency projects and to develop renewable energy opportunities.
Crown loans
We offer loans to assist central and local government organisations to implement energy efficiency projects.
Grants for solar water heating
We offer grants for solar water heating for government buildings, especially those using a lot of hot water such as swimming pools or residential facilities.
Applications are received and assessed throughout the financial year as funding is available.
Currently the fund is oversubscribed and applications are on hold until additional funding becomes available. If you are planning to install solar water heating in a government building, please email solarfinance@eeca.govt.nz or phone 0800 358 676 and ask for a Grants for Public Buildings Advisor, to find out when the fund re-opens.
Grants for wood energy
Wood energy is a good alternative energy source for some government organisations, such as schools. We offer grants for projects to convert to the use of wood energy.
More information
- Easy no-cost energy saving tips
- Managing your buildings for energy efficiency
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To help raise awareness of your programme, download useful 'Switch off' posters, stickers and resources to use around your business. You can also request 'Switch Off' stickers by email.
