The Big Switch Off

At School

Save energy, reduce costs

With rising energy prices, saving energy is one of the easiest ways to reduce costs in school.

Reducing your energy bill can be done cheaply without necessarily investing in expensive technologies or making major alterations. Take a walk around your school and see how energy is being used and spot where savings can be made. Engage with staff and pupils, raise awareness of what you are doing and why, and implement some simple good housekeeping.

Saving energy can also help to tackle climate change. Almost half of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions come from energy we use to heat and power buildings. Fossil fuels used to produce electricity, gas and oil release greenhouse gases, in particular carbon dioxide when burnt.

See climate change for further information.

Good housekeeping top 5

Adjust timer settings to ensure heating matches occupancy patterns
Don't switch on computers, printers and other appliances until you need them
Switch off monitors during break and lunch time
Switch off equipment and lighting at night and over the weekend
Make full use of daylight ensuring windows and skylights are cleaned regularly and curtains opened

How do I get involved?

Take part in our Energy Detectives Competition for a chance to win your school a renewable energy education kit. Use the record sheet to send in your results
Display the Big Switch Off Posters and Stickers in school
Get children to switch off lights and computer monitors at break times and lights, computer equipment and interactive whiteboards in the evening. Appoint some children as energy monitors.
Get children to ask their friends and family to switch off unnecessary lighting and electrical appliances at home

Join in today

Take the Big Switch Off Pledge

See Energy Saving Tips for Schools

Download our energy saving factsheet (PDF)

Download our energy mythbusters factsheet (PDF)

Find out about Eco Schools and Sustainable Schools

See Generation Green and The Pod websites

For further information on saving energy in school contact:-

Leicestershire Schools - Energy and Water Services. Tel. 0116 305 5000 or email energyandwater@leics.gov.uk
Leicester City Schools - Nick Morris, Head of Energy Services. Tel. 0116 299 5123 or email nick.morris@leicester.gov.uk
Rutland Schools - Property Services Team. Tel. 01572 722577 or email enquiries@rutland.gov.uk