The SEE program provides the plan, materials, training, and support required to manage an energy efficiency program in a school district and is designed to be implemented over the course of five years. Each year builds upon the other with new awareness campaigns and energy-saving strategies and activities.
The overall objective of the SEE program is to provide schools with a way to reduce their operating costs through the efficient use of energy while maintaining a healthy learning environment. School staff, students and the community have a positive impact their local environment while educating through awareness to create a generation of energy-conscious students.
SEE program success is measured
and tracked by Bishop Energy Engineering, which will record and
monitor your energy use and cost. SEE Utility Tracking offers
recommendations for cost -saving opportunities and reports details
of your energy cost and use.
Since the SEE program began in Minnesota in 2003, over 250 schools have participated with a combined average annual energy use savings of 11% and a total of $6.7 million dollars in avoided utility costs. Twelve school districts have been named ENERGY STAR Leaders in Minnesota out of only 28 in the Nation. In addition, the SEE program has helped over 70 school buildings qualify for the ENERGY STAR Label.
SEE Program Goals:
1) Reduce Annual Energy Use by 10%
2) Achieve national recognition through ENERGY STAR® for building and district-wide improvements
3) Engage students and staff
SEE Program Awards:
2007 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year – Service and Product Provider
National award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to recognize leading companies and organizations for outstanding contributions to environmental protection and energy efficiency through partnerships with ENERGY STAR.
2004 Innovation in Energy Efficiency
National award from the U.S. Department of Energy to honor organizations that have excelled in their contributions to energy efficiency and renewable energy in the state and community network.
SEE Program Background:
The SEE program was developed in 2003 by Hallberg Engineering, Inc. of White Bear Lake, MN, a mechanical and electrical engineering firm with more than 25 years experience serving school districts. SEE was created in response to school district’s need for a flexible, self-implemented plan to help realize immediate savings in energy use as well as develop a long-term culture of energy efficiency.
Why Saving Energy is Important for Schools
· Reduces energy waste. Nearly 1/3 of energy consumed in schools is not used efficiently.
· Saves money. Annual energy costs can reach up to $250 per student and energy is a major source of avoidable spending.
· Shows responsibility to tax payers. Efficient operations use taxpayer money wisely and redirect money towards educational needs.
· Preserves the environment. 80% of pollution is from the production, distribution, and disposal of energy. Saving energy reduces pollution and the use of nonrenewable resources.
· Educates students. Instilling wise energy habits in students creates lifelong conservationists and teaches them to care about the impact of their actions.
* Improves the learning environment. There is a positive correlation between the physical condition of the learning environment and student performance. Many energy efficient practices help create better lighting, temperature control, acoustics and air quality.
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Central Avenue, Northwood IA 50459
Phone/fax: 641-324-4992
Toll free: 1-800-432-5647
Margaret@beengineering.com