Building Energy Efficient Schools

Abstract

Many new school buildings consume only half the energy required by similar efficient structures designed without energy performance as a design criterion. These are comfortable and efficient while construction costs remain about the same as those for extremely inefficient buildings. To accomplish this, the school administrator must be an active participant in the design process. Energy efficient school design is a team effort involving the architect, engineer, and school administrator. This paper presents concepts and approaches to guide new school projects for energy efficiency. Comments or approaches for energy efficiency in mechanical and electrical systems are included.