Burke County Public Schools Energy Efficiency Program

This document is a case study detailing the energy efficiency program implemented by Burke County Public Schools (BCPS) in North Carolina. The objective of the program was to address the rising energy costs that were threatening essential educational programs. The partnership with Cenergistic led to significant savings of $30 million, which were reinvested into various educational initiatives, including classroom technology and curriculum development. The program resulted in a reduction of utility costs to $0.96 per square foot and contributed to competitive teacher salaries, aiding in the retention of top talent within the district. The comprehensive approach taken by Cenergistic included data-driven optimization, behavior modification through educational campaigns, and infrastructure upgrades. These strategies ensured a wide range of energy-saving opportunities were identified and acted upon, ultimately empowering the district to enhance educational outcomes without compromising on quality.