Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) is the seventh largest Catholic school system in Ontario, operating 44 elementary schools, five secondary schools and three adult and continuing education campuses served by 4,200 full and part-time staff (including teachers, educational assistants, support staff, custodial staff, youth care workers, administrators, and supply staff). The total student enrolment is 27,700, plus an additional 13,000 students in adult/continuing education programs.
With the support of the Climate Action Microgrant, WCDSB decided to install real-time energy monitoring equipment to track energy use in detail. This more detailed information will help inform strategies to enhance energy efficiency and reduce operational costs.
By closely tracking energy usage, the board can identify areas for improvement and implement targeted strategies to minimize energy waste.
WCDSB estimates the long-term impact of their metering project will be a 5-10% reduction in energy usage based on their case studies. A successful energy efficiency project undertaken at one school can also demonstrate what’s possible for other schools looking to become more sustainable while finding cost savings.
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