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12 Cranston, R.I. Schools Achieve Energy Star Status for Conservation

Release Date: 10/18/2010
Contact Information: Paula Ballentine, (617) 918-1027

(Boston, Mass. – October 18, 2010) – During 2010, a dozen schools in Cranston, R.I. have earned Energy Star labels. The Energy Star mark of excellence certifies that the school scored in the top 25 percent when benchmarked against energy use in similar buildings across the U.S.

Cranston Public Schools joined the EPA New England Community Energy Challenge in 2009, and uses Energy Star software to track the results of their energy efficiency efforts in 31 buildings.

Some of the keys to Cranston Public Schools’ success include having HVAC technicians, plumbers, electricians and in-house custodial staff dedicated to work on energy efficiency projects, and having staff trained through the National Grid Building Operators Course. Additionally, Cranston Public Schools distributes educational material and keeps the community apprised of their progress in saving energy through a specific Energy page on their website.

“Making our buildings, including the schools where our children learn, energy efficient is a smart way for New England communities to make a sound investment that will pay dividends for years to come,” said Curt Spalding, regional administrator of EPA’s New England office. “Efficiency measures can save school districts a whopping 30 percent or more on their energy bills each year. These measures make the learning environments more comfortable and productive, while also reducing harmful emissions including greenhouse gases.”

“Cranston Public Schools have saved over $2.5 million dollars over the past few years by having dedicated facilities staff to work on energy efficiency projects. The support of the school committee and the entire school community has enabled us to reach these important milestones. Not only are we saving money, but we are improving the environment both inside and outside our schools,” said Karen Verrengia, Cranston Public Schools’ Energy Manager.

The 12 Cranston, R.I. schools receiving the Energy Star label in 2010 include:

• Barrows Elementary School, 9 Beachmont Avenue
• Cranston High School East, 899 Park Avenue
• Cranston High School West, 80 Metropolitan Avenue
• Edgewood Highland Elementary School, 160 Pawtuxet Avenue
• Norwood Avenue School, 205 Norwood Avenue
• Park View Middle School, 25 Park View Blvd.
• Rhodes Elementary School, 160 Shaw Avenue
• Sprague School, 45 Sprague Avenue 
• Stadium Elementary School, 100 Crescent Avenue
• Stone Hill Elementary School, 21 Village Avenue 
• Western Hills Middle School, 100 Metropolitan Avenue
• William A. Briggs School, 845 Park Avenue

More information:

EPA New England Community Energy Challenge: https://www.epa.gov/region1/eco/energy/energy-challenge.html

Cranston Public Schools energy conservation efforts (http://cpsed.net/energy)

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