MONTGOMERY— In 2006 the leaders of a public school system in Alabama committed themselves to lowering the system’s utility costs by reducing energy use in school buildings. Four years later, the Talladega County School System has cut energy costs by $2.3 million becoming the first system in Alabama to be named a national Energy Star Leader.

The school system received the designation in May, and 13 schools along with the system’s central office were awarded Energy Star Building Labels as part of a program to promote energy efficiency. The Energy Division of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs presented the awards on behalf of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at the school board’s May meeting.       

“Talladega County schools are a perfect example of how energy-saving measures can save millions of taxpayer dollars over a period of time,” ADECA Director Doni Ingram said. “The county’s success can be replicated in schools and buildings across the state, and our Energy Division stands ready to assist.”

To qualify for Energy Star Building Labels, the school buildings scored in the top 25 percent on the EPA’s National Energy Performance Rating System, meaning the buildings conserve more energy and emit less greenhouse gases than similar facilities.

The system achieved the energy savings by implementing a comprehensive energy management plan to reduce energy use in the daily operations of the schools. For example, the schools reduce heating and cooling when the buildings are not in use and avoid unnecessary heating and cooling in areas that are unoccupied. Students, teachers and staff also help by turning off lights, computers and electronic equipment when not in use.

“Our efforts are saving taxpayer dollars while also helping protect our environment,” Talladega County School Superintendent Suzanne Lacy said.

As the Alabama Energy Office, ADECA’s Energy Division is dedicated to assisting public school officials with energy-saving tips, strategies and solutions. In November, Gov. Bob Riley awarded $4 million in economic stimulus grants through ADECA to help 14 Alabama public school systems, including Talladega County, save energy and reduce utility bills by upgrading equipment and making other improvements.

For more information about Energy Star, call (334) 353-4380 or go to www.adeca.alabama.gov/energy.   

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Contact: Mike Presley, Larry Childers