Energy conservation in schools discussed

Friday, March 5, 2004 | 9:26 a.m.

Educators and U.S. Department of Energy officials will team up today to discuss ways to improve conservation in the Clark County School District.

Sponsored by the Energy Department and the district, the "EnergySmart Schools in Action" conference will be held at the Stan Fulton International Gaming Institute on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Since launching an aggressive conservation campaign nearly two years ago the district has trimmed about $3 million off its annual $35 million power bill.

During the summer months schools on nine-month calendars close for the month of July and cafeteria supplies are consolidated so that unused freezers and refrigerators may be shut down. Display lights for vending machines have been disconnected at all campuses.

Schools that show the biggest reduction in energy bills each year receive rebate checks as a reward, said Dale Scott, the school district's energy manager.

Today's conference will provide the district with additional ideas for boosting savings and awareness among teachers, students and staff, Scott said.

"We are eager to learn how to improve this program," Scott said. "Every dollar saved through energy conservation methods can be used toward the educational needs of our students."

In addition to presentations from district staff and the Energy Department, the keynote speaker will be Richard Burdette, energy adviser to Gov. Kenny Guinn and director of the Nevada State Office of Energy.