San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) serves over 130,000 students throughout the City of San Diego. That’s thousands of opportunities to encourage smart energy habits that will help reduce the carbon footprint in our region and build healthier communities.
While many schools across the nation are spending billions of dollars annually on energy—more than what’s spent on computer and textbooks combined—SDUSD has a vision to educate by example and forge a path to a more sustainable future.
Earlier this year, SDUSD was recognized at SDG&E’s 12th Annual Energy Showcase for its leadership in energy efficiency best practices that are turning local schools into clean, sustainable facilities.
‘Green’ schools
Since the implementation of Prop 39, which requires schools to evaluate and manage their energy use and carry out energy efficiency upgrades, San Diego schools have been among the leaders statewide. The implementation of smart technologies and innovative solutions to “green” our local schools has led to a reduction of more than 17 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions—the equivalent of 103 tanker trucks filled with gasoline.
While retrofits in the schools include installation of LED lighting, smart thermostats, energy storage and solar panels, SDUSD prides itself on its dedication to behavioral energy management that is teaching the students how to be environmental stewards.
In addition to saving energy, the district is expected to save nearly $90,000 a year—money that can be put right back into vital education programs.
Watch this short video to learn more about SDUSD’s sustainability practices:
This article is part of a series highlighting SDG&E’s 2017 Energy Champions. Click here to watch short video profiles showcasing how we’re working together to build healthier communities.