Targeted Audit
You can learn more on how your school uses energy on a daily basis by applying for a Bright Energy Solutions® Targeted Energy Audit Program. A team of energy engineers will conduct the cost-shared energy audit that will include analysis of heating and cooling systems, lighting, and structural elements such as roofing and building envelopes.
Schools will pay 50 percent of the audit fee, up to $5,000. The school is eligible for a reimbursement of the balance 50 percent audit fee upon completion of all measures recommended in the audit, with a simple payback of two years or less.
Applications will determine eligibility measured by achieving a 75 or less ENERGY STAR benchmark score and proof of financial capability to meet the cost-sharing criteria.
- Consider skipping the ice-maker and dispenser. Automatic ice-makers and through-the-door dispensers increase energy use by 14-20 percent. They also raise the purchase price by $75 to $250.
- If you buy a new refrigerator, be sure to recycle your old one. Replacing a fridge from the 1980s with an ENERGY STAR model can save $100 per year on your utility bill. Replacing a 1970s model can save up to $200 per year!
- Consider buying a refrigerator with a top-mounted freezer. Models with top-mounted freezers use 10 to 25 percent less energy than bottom-mount or side-by-side models.
- Purchase an appropriately sized refrigerator. Generally, the larger the refrigerator, the greater the energy consumption. The most energy-efficient models are typically 16-20 cubic feet.
Family Room
Family rooms are full of electronic devices--such as gaming consoles and DVD players--that continue to use energy in standby mode even when they are turned off. Cluster these devices on a power strip to conveniently cut off power at one time.
Thermostat
Install a programmable thermostat to keep your house comfortably warm in the winter and comfortably cool in the summer.