GCS Energy Team - Completed Energy Projects

The GCS Energy Team has accomplished the following since program inception in 2008:

  • Hired an Energy Engineer.
  • Drafted a five-year Strategic Energy Master Plan.
  • Contracted with School Dude (Utility Direct) for web-based utility tracking.
  • Conducted regular Energy Advisory Committee meetings to garner feedback on energy program initiatives from respected members from our community and key GCS employees across the district.
  • Performed pilot energy audits at four schools for fine tuning of assessment process.
  • Completed more than 60 energy assessments of GCS schools focusing on building envelope, lighting, HVAC and other energy usage systems. The results: more than 300 energy conservation measures (ECMs) identified. The ECMs fall into 3 categories: Behavioral Changes, Systems Intervention and Systems Design. We have implemented and are continuing to implement the low-cost, no-cost ECMs. Our goal is to implement the higher investment ECMs on a prioritized basis as funding becomes available.
  • Installed several new higher efficient boilers, new HVAC rooftop units, new HVAC air handlers, new cooling tower, upgraded controls, installed new high efficient roof systems, etc. at multiple school locations.
  • Performed summer and holiday shutdowns and setbacks as appropriate.
  • Implemented power-saving sleep setting procedures on computers.
  • Completed rate optimization reviews with Duke Energy.
  • Participated in Duke Energy Rebate Incentives.
  • Completed testing of Vending Misers (energy savings device). Received a donation of more than 200 Vending Misers from Pepsi Bottling Company to be utilized in all of our schools on the lighted cold drink machines and have begun implementation.
  • Initiated testing of HVAC controls to control the set back of temperatures after hours in mobile classrooms. Currently, GCS is testing two new systems with plans to begin testing a third.
  • Have steadily infused more energy education into curriculum.
  • Increased energy awareness through sharing utility bills on a quarterly basis with schools and administrative buildings. We have also shared numerous energy tips. 
  • Performed various meter studies.
  • Awarded a $30,000 grant for Pilot Energy WISE program and are grateful to the City of Greensboro.  The Energy Efficiency Education and Demonstration Challenge Grant (E3 Grant) was created by the City of Greensboro using federal dollars from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  Applicants were scored on selection criteria including energy efficiency, collaboration, impact, and design.
  • Rolled out successful Pilot Energy WISE Educational program in January 2011 to 24 participating schools.
  • GCS had 3 state level NEED Youth award winners and one national winner and also won the NEED Regional award.
  • In 2011, GCS implemented an aggressive summer energy management program.  The initiative involved a four-day summer work week, as well as a district-wide effort to unplug all unnecessary electric devices, adjust HVAC settings according to occupancy, curb water consumption, and turn off unneeded lights. 

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