Albert Park College have won an energy assessment and feasibility advice on a renewable energy solution, as part of our Energy Challenge in 2021. This amazing prize will be provided by solar-energy generation specialist Enervest and industry consultancy experts ENHAR.
We asked the Albert Park College Environment Team to share their energy reduction initiatives and advice for schools struggling with high energy use.
1. How did participating in the energy campaign positively impact your school?
For Albert Park College, energy usage has been a main carbon emitter and we noticed a definite need for action to change our school\’s energy habits. We now have reduced hours of usage for TVs, lights and other devices, the installation of Carbon Track giving us access to accurate data and allowing the school to monitor energy usage. Overall, APC has reduced its electricity usage through these changes, while also securing 100% Green Electricity, which is helping our school reduce carbon emissions.
2. How much of your energy reduction success is due to student involvement?
Students have been at the center of our energy campaign, their determination to volunteer their time as part of the enviro team \’Switch it off\’ campaign has been truly inspiring to see. Students regularly went around the school switching all appliances and lights off, these blitzes reducing weekend and after hour energy usage by at least 10%.
3. What is your next energy reduction goal?
The environmental teams will all be working towards achieving at least 20% electricity reduction in 2022 as well as working towards securing extra solar on various campuses to produce more renewable energy.
4. What is your advice for other schools struggling with high energy use?
The key to energy reduction is first setting a clear vision and making sure everyone in your school community understands why you are committing to energy reduction and understand the visions. Next, it is all about data collection. While it might be tempting to start campaigning immediately, it is essential to identify where your energy usage is originating from before setting up a clear plan of action to achieve your reduction target.
Thank you Albert Park College for sharing your energy story!
Learn more by visiting the Albert Park College website.