Most schools spend more money on energy than on books and supplies. In fact, the cost of energy is second only to salaries. It is well documented that effective daylight harvesting can significantly lower this energy consumption in school buildings. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 72 percent of the cost of energy in educational buildings goes towards electricity, with the majority (56 percent) going toward electric lighting. By utilizing effective daylighting strategies, in combination with daylight harvesting from LC&D, schools can reduce or eliminate the need for heat-producing electric lights during the school day.

According to the U.S. Deptartment of Education, school energy costs average $176 per student per year. A proper daylighting and lighting control strategies can save up to $85 per student per year. By reducing these operational costs, the savings can be redirected to improving education.

The reports below represent only a handful of those available that indicate the strong relationship of daylight harvesting and energy savings.

This guide offers great information and details on best design practices for classroon lighting.

It also offers potential savings for differing controls strategies including:

"Daylight Controls with Occupancy Sensor ...45%"

Minimum projected annual energy savings of 1.85 kWh/sq.ft.-yr. ...

PG&E does not endorse particular products or services from any specific manufacturer or service provider.