Gwinnett Schools Receive 'Energy Star' Certification

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently bestowed 111 Gwinnett County Public Schools with the “Energy Star” certification for superior energy performance, according to a press release from Jorge Quintana, GCPS Communication and Media Relations.

In order to achieve this, each school had to perform in the top 25 percent of K-12 schools nationwide “for energy efficiency and meet strict energy efficiency performance levels set by the EPA.” 

Top performing schools had to have an energy performance score of 75 of higher. According to the press release, Gwinnett's average score was 86 percent. 

Schools with the Energy Star rating cost less to operate. Because of their energy savvy methods, GCPS saves $8.4 million annually, systemwide. 

“With energy becoming a larger and less predictable expense,” Quintana said in the press release, “the district continues to enhance its energy performance by investing in building improvements like lighting retrofits and occupancy sensors.

“By increasing energy efficiency, the district not only reduces its carbon footprint but saves money on its utility bills.”

By the end of the year, GCPS plans to the remaining few schools that did not make the rating equally energy efficient.

“In Gwinnett, we take pride in being a leader instructionally and operationally,” said CEO/Superindendent J. Alvin Wilbanks. “On the operations side, it is critical that we make good business decisions and assess our practices against industry standards.

“I am pleased with the strides we have been able to make in terms of energy efficiency... strides that have led to 95 percent of our eligible schools earning the Energy Star rating. While this recognition is notable, I contend that the savings we are recouping through our conservation efforts is what is most important.

"In these though budget times, those are dollars that can be used to better serve students.”

Achieving the Energy Star certification for superior energy efficiency is proof that Gwinnett County Public Schools are working hard to reduce costs and protect the environment.