Energy Pathway - Sample Action Plan

Learning Objectives

• To interpret data from the energy audit
• To evaluate needs arising from the audit data
• To provide realistic solutions to these needs
• To cooperate effectively as a group

Curriculum Links
English, Science, Geography, Citizenship

Eco-Schools USA Pathways
Energy, Climate Change

Preparation

Before completing your action plan, you should carry out an energy audit.

Creating the Action plan

1. Energy audit review

• Using the data from your audit, identify the places where energy is not being used efficiently.

2. Group brainstorming

• In small groups, brainstorm solutions to these energy issues. Groups can be assigned specific issues to address. Alternatively, all groups can be assigned the same prominent issues to achieve a greater variety of interesting solutions.
• As a team, discuss and agree on the most effective solutions.
• Compile these solutions into a final action plan. See a sample energy action plan (PDF, 40 Kb), and access a blank action plan (Word document, 34 Kb).
• Assign tasks to appropriate individuals within the team and across the school. Agree on realistic timeframes in which tasks should be completed.

3. Execution of tasks

• Set aside time for students to carry out the activities they have assigned themselves and to notify other staff and students of the responsibilities assigned to them.
• Provide training to staff and students on implementing the energy conservation campaign.
• Set-up the school for success. For example, place stickers or signs near light switches and electronics to remind students and teachers to switch them off when not needed.

Follow up

Set a review date to revisit your action plan as a group. Analyze how far you have come and identify what else you can do.

• Schedule a follow-up energy audit after a few months to measure the effectiveness of your scheme.

Extension ideas

• Add a section on energy conservation to your school's website.
• In regular assemblies, share results, achievements and development plans for the future.
• Prepare a school notice board showing graphs of results and achievements.
• Involve the local press and radio to let everyone know about the school's energy conservation scheme.
• Team up with another school in the area to share ideas.
• Have students develop a database with the help of spreadsheet software to record information, draw graphs and analyze the data.