Learning Energy Systems: An holistic approach to low energy behaviour in schools

Existing buildings are aligned with substantial energy use. Energy modelling is failing to produce an accurate prediction of the energy needed to operate buildings, particularly in the education sector. Schools and higher education estates often use 50% more electrical energy than the design models show. Much of this is associated with what is termed ‘unregulated’ energy, in other words, energy associated with unpredicted use of the building.
Working with sets of energy data, school pupils, teachers and building managers were involved in an action research project around the theme of lighting energy. This led to a reduction in energy use by lighting of 15%. Lighting control systems and education and awareness of energy use both contributed to this reduction. The study considers the benefits in financial terms. The relatively small gains offer significant potential over the lifespan of a school building. The wider benefit is in the involvement of building users in the management of their energy use.