Breakdown of energy costs in a typical school

Energy consumption in schools can vary depending on the age of the buildings, their state of repair, occupancy hours and the amount and type of electrical equipment installed.

Generally, secondary schools will have higher energy costs than primary schools. This is because secondary schools usually have larger buildings, more classrooms, longer hours and a larger number of students, as well as more widespread use of electrical equipment in ICT, science, sports and D&T lessons.

However, areas of energy waste are often the same regardless of school size or level. The information in the table below details where the biggest savings can be made. They are divided into energy cost and energy use and comparing them should help you decide which areas to prioritise.

For example, note how much energy electric lighting uses – 8% – but then compare that with what it may be costing – as much as 20%. Electricity is more expensive and produces more emissions per kWh than gas. Have you considered switching to LED lighting to save energy on electric lighting?