This article examines how local experiments and negotiation processes contribute to social and field-level learning. The analysis is framed within the niche development literature, which offers a framework for analyzing the relation between projects in local contexts and the transfer of local experiences into generally applicable rules. The…

This report presents an overview of the energy management plan for Tasmanian schools designed to minimize the costs of all forms of energy usage within these facilities. The policy and objectives of the plan are provided along with details of the plan itself and its current status. Appendices contain an extract from Asset Management Plan for Real…

Fourteen million students attend schools needing extensive repair or remodeling. It is estimated that U.S. schools will require as much as $112 billion to bring them up to a good overall condition and an additional $12 billion to comply with federal mandates. This book compiles what is considered the best maintenance and operations articles that…

A study determined the performance levels, energy savings, and occupant acceptance of occupancy sensors that were installed in a Florida small office building and two elementary schools. Performance data was collected in 15-minute intervals. Aggregate time-of-day lighting load profiles were compared before and after the installation and throughout…

Australia's New South Wales Education Facilities Research Group, a joint initiative between the Department of Education and Training and the Department of Public Works and Services, provides action research into issues which impact on school design. This article describes a few of the initiatives which have resulted, such as an educational video…

A closed-loop geothermal heating system in a Minnesota school uses the earth's temperature as a counterweight to the extremes of temperature on the surface and in the school. The system is expected to recoup its extra investment in fewer than five years of service. Cites statistics concerning energy management in schools. (MLF)

Explores the overlapping of energy efficiency, budget-cutting, and facility needs in K-12 schools. Utilities expenditures in schools are discussed for electricity and natural gas as are energy-saving alternatives such as daylighting, solar energy, wind production of power, and geothermal energy. Sources for further information conclude the…

Explains how schools can take advantage of energy-saving opportunities to better meet the needs of the future without increasing energy demands. Energy-savings ideas as components of a complete energy management control system are highlighted as are tips on saving energy through equipment and classroom design selection, and energy conservation…

Examines the monitoring results from two large-scale metering and energy information projects: Texas LoanSTAR Program; and the Texas A & M Campus Project. Data suggest implementing an energy metering system is cost effective, particularly if the system can be coupled with skilled engineering applications such as energy cost allocation and…

The hydrogen economy has received increasing attention recently. Common reasons cited for investigating hydrogen energy options are improved energy security, reduced environmental impacts, and its contribution to a transition to sustainable energy sources. In anticipation of these benefits, national and local initiatives have been launched in the…

Discusses the risk factors involved in the development of energy efficient projects in schools. Defines the nature of the risks and provides an outline for managing risks through alternative financing. (MD)

Analysis of school utility bills is a good business practice for administrators. Efficient energy management of equipment is measured by the "load factor"--the ratio of average demand to maximum demand. An audit enables control of this factor. (CJH)

Describes how a master infrastructure plan for electrical and mechanical systems can help determine annual maintenance budgets, form annual capital-improvement budgets, take a snapshot of existing conditions, and lead to better energy management. Discusses important elements in such plans. (EV)

Discusses trends noted by experts in education facilities management in the areas of construction, energy, security, and athletic facilities. (EV)

Asserts that the complexity of interrelated energy management factors means that business officers have to be more closely involved in assessing and communicating the effects of energy on campus maintenance and operations and utility budgets. Discusses identifying appropriate energy initiatives, developing realistic utility infrastructure plans…