Cutting back is saving Onalaska schools money

Onalaska, WI (WXOW) - A energy efficient program is saving the Onalaska school district big bucks. Four years ago the district hired a consultant based in Texas called The Energy Education Inc. to help the district reduce its energy costs.

Over those four years the district has saved more than $1-million reducing their energy cost by 31%. The district taught staff to do simple energy efficiency practices such as shutting off computers, printers, monitors and lights. Energy Manager Doug Hauser said, "It amazed me.  I didn't think we would do this well, this soon."

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Onalaska schools' energy savings top $1M

ONALASKA - Focusing on energy conservation has saved the Onalaska School District $1 million in four years, officials said Tuesday. A 2005 community survey that identified energy efficiency as a priority led to the district-wide effort to reduce gas, electricity and water consumption, Superintendent John Burnett said. "Part of it is being good stewards with tax dollars and spending that money on classes rather than watching it go up the smokestack," Burnett said. "I think people appreciate that." The school district partnered with Texas-based Energy Education Inc. for training, software and consultation in October 2006, said Doug Hauser, district energy manager.