K-12 Schools

K-12 school districts spend over $8 billion nationwide on energy costs each year. More than 30 percent of energy use goes to waste and ten percent can be saved by implementing low-cost measures. This page will help you learn how to assess your building's energy efficiency, find financing, save energy, and earn recognition. 

Benchmark

Benchmarking energy and water use is the first step to understanding and improving your school's performance, and continuously monitor performance in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager. Benchmarking in ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager® can help identify underperforming buildings and verify savings. This no-cost tool allows you to compare your school's energy performance to similar buildings across the nation.

Learn About Funding Programs

Get Smart About Financing

Save Energy

​To save energy, EPA recommends that you start with low- to no-cost measures, then use those savings to finance larger improvements. Follow the steps below:

  1. First, establish an energy management plan using the ENERGY STAR Guidelines for Energy Management.
  2. Visit our save energy section to find eight energy-saving strategies or look for help from an expert.
  3. Find ways to engage children with efficiency using the K-12 Energy Efficiency Student Toolkit.
  4. To ensure continuous healthy indoor air quality in the long-term, your school can also implement IAQ and ventilation improvements as part of a comprehensive Indoor Air Quality Management Program.

Earn Recognition

​ENERGY STAR is the single most trusted environmental label in the United States. It's recognized by nearly 90% of American households. Show the world that your organization is saving energy, saving money, and protecting the planet by earning ENERGY STAR recognition. Depending on your achievement levels, you can apply for recognition for your building, your leased tenant space, or your entire organization.