100 Energy-Saving Tips for Schools

Practical steps across classrooms, offices, and school grounds that help reduce energy use and lower costs.

Classrooms & Teaching Spaces

• 1. Turn off lights when leaving the room to avoid unnecessary electricity use.
• 2. Make the most of natural daylight instead of artificial lighting.
• 3. Keep blinds open during the day to reduce reliance on overhead lights.
• 4. Assign pupil “energy monitors” to check equipment is switched off.
• 5. Turn off projectors when not in use to prevent wasted power.
• 6. Use whiteboards instead of paper where possible to reduce waste.
• 7. Keep windows closed when heating is on to prevent heat loss.
• 8. Avoid using portable electric heaters as they are inefficient and costly.
• 9. Encourage pupils to wear layers before increasing heating levels.
• 10. Switch off interactive whiteboards after lessons.
• 11. Use LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy than older lighting.
• 12. Fit timers on classroom fans to prevent them running all day.
• 13. Keep classroom doors closed to maintain heating efficiency.
• 14. Run “switch-off” challenges to encourage energy awareness.
• 15. Clean lighting fixtures regularly to maintain brightness.
• 16. Label switches clearly so staff know what each one controls.
• 17. Display reminder posters to promote energy-saving habits.
• 18. Use window film to reduce overheating in summer.
• 19. Move furniture away from radiators to allow heat to circulate.
• 20. Hold outdoor lessons where appropriate to reduce indoor energy use.

ICT & Computer Rooms

• 21. Enable automatic sleep mode on computers.
• 22. Use power management software to control large numbers of devices.
• 23. Turn off PCs and monitors at the end of the school day.
• 24. Use laptops instead of desktops where possible, as they use less energy.
• 25. Replace old monitors with modern energy-efficient screens.
• 26. Reduce printing by sharing documents digitally.
• 27. Switch off printers overnight to avoid standby consumption.
• 28. Use double-sided printing to reduce paper and energy use.
• 29. Use draft mode for internal documents.
• 30. Limit use of laminators and other heat-based equipment.

Admin & Office Areas

• 31. Switch off photocopiers overnight.
• 32. Unplug chargers when not in use.
• 33. Use energy-saving kettle bases that switch off automatically.
• 34. Fit timers to hot water boilers in staff rooms.
• 35. Turn off monitors when leaving desks.
• 36. Only boil the amount of water needed.
• 37. Use video meetings to reduce travel where appropriate.
• 38. Use digital noticeboards to reduce printing.
• 39. Install plug timers for breakroom appliances.
• 40. Conduct regular energy audits to identify inefficiencies.

Maintenance & Site Management

• 41. Service boilers annually to maintain efficiency.
• 42. Bleed radiators to ensure they heat properly.
• 43. Insulate pipes and water tanks to retain heat.
• 44. Install motion sensors in corridors and toilets.
• 45. Fit draught excluders to reduce heat loss.
• 46. Fix dripping taps to save water and heating energy.
• 47. Clean skylights to maximise natural light.
• 48. Monitor leaks and overflow tanks.
• 49. Set heating schedules to match school hours.
• 50. Reduce thermostat settings slightly to save energy.

Behavioural & School-Wide Ideas

• 51. Run a “Switch Off Fortnight” to promote awareness.
• 52. Create a pupil eco-team to lead sustainability initiatives.
• 53. Share monthly energy updates in assemblies.
• 54. Send energy-saving tips to families.
• 55. Use school communications to promote sustainability.
• 56. Recognise classes that demonstrate good energy habits.
• 57. Involve pupils in reading energy meters.
• 58. Set whole-school energy reduction targets.
• 59. Encourage pupils to design awareness posters.
• 60. Include energy awareness in PSHE or citizenship lessons.

School Grounds & Outdoor Spaces

• 61. Install solar-powered outdoor lighting.
• 62. Use timers on security lighting.
• 63. Plant trees to provide natural shade.
• 64. Create a school garden to support sustainability education.
• 65. Use rainwater harvesting for gardening.
• 66. Use manual tools instead of powered blowers where possible.
• 67. Maintain insulation in temporary classrooms.
• 68. Use composting to reduce waste.
• 69. Ensure playground equipment does not block ventilation units.
• 70. Keep outdoor HVAC vents clear.

Smart Equipment & Technology

• 71. Install smart thermostats to optimise heating.
• 72. Use programmable lighting systems.
• 73. Replace exit signs with LED versions.
• 74. Install radiator reflectors to improve heat distribution.
• 75. Fit occupancy sensors in low-use areas.
• 76. Use CO2 monitors to adjust ventilation efficiently.
• 77. Put vending machines on timers.
• 78. Use battery-powered clocks instead of plug-in versions.
• 79. Monitor usage with a smart meter.
• 80. Choose energy-efficient equipment when replacing old items.

Fundraising, Rewards & Incentives

• 81. Hold a “Low Energy Day” to raise awareness.
• 82. Sell reusable bottles to promote sustainability.
• 83. Offer badges or certificates for energy-saving achievements.
• 84. Recognise pupils and staff who demonstrate good practice.
• 85. Create a classroom league table to encourage friendly competition.
• 86. Seek sponsorship from local businesses for green projects.
• 87. Link energy savings to charitable donations.
• 88. Produce custom stickers to promote awareness.
• 89. Involve pupils in designing rewards.
• 90. Sell eco-friendly workbooks or resources.

At-Home & Community Impact

• 91. Send home a list of simple energy-saving tips.
• 92. Encourage families to unplug devices when not in use.
• 93. Promote washing clothes at 30°C.
• 94. Hold workshops for parents on energy efficiency.
• 95. Encourage walking or cycling to school.

Additional Energy-Saving Tips

• 96. Install low-flow taps to reduce hot water use.
• 97. Use timers on external signage lighting.
• 98. Seal gaps around doors and windows.
• 99. Encourage double-sided photocopying.
• 100. Adjust fridge and freezer temperatures to efficient levels.