Energy Management

Energy Management

The energy management program was officially begun in January 1984 as an outgrowth of the Federal Department of Energy's "National Energy Conservation Policy Act," following the Arab Oil Embargo of 1973. By analyzing and auditing each school's energy-usage patterns, Akron Public Schools was able to obtain several grants from the Ohio Department of Energy to repair and retrofit HVAC controls to operate more efficiently. As a result of the grants, programs and subsequent contracts – including installation of a computerized "Building Automation System" in all schools – Akron Public Schools has saved more than $5 million since the beginning of its energy management efforts.

Energy, Environmental Health and Safety is responsible for the controls that operate the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems in the schools. This includes equipment ranging from air dryers on compressed air (pneumatic) systems to individual room thermostats to computerized control elements.

We work with building custodians, who have primary responsibility for operating their building's HVAC equipment, and with Maintenance Department plumbers and electricians, who continue to have responsibility for other elements of HVAC equipment repairs and calibrations.

Is the temperature in your classroom or office perfect? Probably not. Since most control devices are mechanical, usually pneumatic, they need continual recalibration. Sometimes – as controls wear out or are vandalized by poking and probing, wet paper towels, etc. – they need to be replaced.

How do you get needed attention to your room or office?

Report problems to your building's custodian. The custodian will check to see if the equipment is operating or functioning properly and then will call on Energy, Environmental Health and Safety or the Maintenance Department for repairs.

The Energy, Environmental Health and Safety Office is staffed from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday (330.761.2976).