Duval County Public Schools Recognized by Florida Energy Office for Commitment to Energy Efficiency
JACKSONVILLE - 75 Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) have been granted the Southeast Rebuild Collaborative (SRC) ‘Met the Challenge’ Award in recognition of their commitment to superior energy performance.
To be eligible for the award, local governments and school districts must demonstrate their commitment to saving energy and reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases by improving energy efficiency by 10% or more.
The DCPS’ schools receiving the award improved an average of 20%, while the total DCPS ENERGY STARŪ portfolio improved 17%. The district-wide energy program saved $750,000 in 2005-2006, $2.5 million in 2006-2007 and $4.4 million in 2007-2008 for a three-year energy savings total of $7.65 million. The actual operational savings are even greater considering the benefits of optimizing system performance, like extended equipment life, reduced maintenance and repair needs, etc.
Modification of electrical and mechanical systems in existing schools, including lighting and air conditioning upgrades, along with the installation of occupancy sensors to turn off lights and set back air conditioning when areas are unoccupied are just some of the ways schools have maintained energy efficiency. DCPS’ staff have taken a proactive approach when designing new schools, meeting with engineers to ensure they are energy efficient from day one. Duval’s first Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certified school is currently under construction on the Westside.
“Duval County Public Schools is a model for other school districts,” said Julio Rovi, SRC Program Manager. “The staff and students of Duval County Public Schools are on their way to improving their energy and financial performance, as well as distinguishing themselves as environmental leaders.” Duval’s winners include 15 high schools, 17 middle schools and 43 elementary schools.
By joining SRC and taking the ENERGY STARŪ Challenge, Duval County Public Schools is helping SRC reach its goal of improving energy efficiency by 10% or more across its partner states. The estimated benefits for all participating states include saving approximately $4.1 million in total annual energy costs and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 483 million pounds annually.
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