Energy Savings At Warren Schools

By Mia Bivaletz

Mrs. Hildy Jackson, Energy Education Specialist, reported that to date, Warren Township Schools has saved over $962,000. Beginning in July 2007, the district enrolled in an energy conservation program. Originally called Energy Education, it is now known as Cenergistic. It is a company that helps organizations examine their energy costs and develop a plan to cut back on these costs.

From 2007 to this past July 2014, this impressive savings represents a cut of 26% from energy costs. “We are well on the way to hitting a million in savings before the 10 year mark,” said Jackson, which is the typical timeline for a program such as this. To what can one attribute the success of the district’s energy management program?

Superintendent, Dr. Tami Crader is proud of the teamwork involved. “Everyone actively participates, including our students. They are aware of how important it is to turn the lights and electronics off, in order to conserve energy.” Students are diligent about making sure doors are closed and computers return to sleep mode. Not only are these good habits exhibited at school, but they are transferred to home as well.

Jackson works closely with all of the custodial teams, who take their role seriously, as they are often the front lines. They alert Jackson to any concerns, which she then evaluates and passes along to Buildings & Grounds Supervisor, Tyler Tribelhorn. Additionally, the maintenance team from the Buildings & Grounds Department fixes equipment based on feedback from the Energy Education Specialist or a staff member, such as heating or air conditioning systems when they are not functioning properly. Completing regularly scheduled walk-throughs, Jackson focuses on all of the district’s facilities to make sure they are operating efficiently, and in compliance with the district’s energy goals. She also monitors usage of facilities which is especially important on weekends, holidays, and during summer shutdown.

The Energy Education Specialist communicates regularly with Principals, as well as the Business Administrator and Superintendent, to report on each individual building’s energy consumption. Warren Township Schools has already received two awards from Cenergistic, earned for reaching and maintaining an initial 20% savings. They are The Award for Energy Stewardship and the Environment Excellence Award.

A newer component to energy saving was the adoption of a solar program, now being used in several buildings, for over one year. The district plans to share the impact that the solar project has had, on energy consumption, with the Warren community. The Energy Education Specialist is eager to report the data specifics towards the latter part of the year. The savings has been consistent and significant. At each year’s end, unspent dollars enable the district to make a deposit to Capital Reserve. “In the long term, the district can take care of its larger facilities projects without incurring debt,” said Patricia Leonhardt, Business Administrator. Warren Township Schools…. Shining Brighter Every Day!