A professional energy audit is a method of determining exactly where and how a school building’s energy is being used, and what opportunities may exist for improvement. Recommendations may include changes to physical structures (windows, doors, insulation), additional equipment or system retrofits, and behavioral changes on the part of students and school staff. In most cases, the cost of these changes is recovered over time in reduced operational costs.

A basic audit includes a walk-through of the school, review of energy usage data and comparison with industry standards. An advanced audit includes an analysis of the school’s equipment, and provides specific recommendations and projections for energy and cost savings.

A computer simulation will predict system performance and includes consideration of weather factors in its recommendations and projections. This type of audit is recommended for all new construction.

Resources:

The U. S. Department of Energy has a great section for school districts and local governments on their Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy web site. Select your state to find detailed information on energy programs in your area.

NYSERDA (the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority) offers programs to assist schools in obtaining an energy audit performed by an approved provider. 

The New Jersey State League of Municipalities administers the state's Clean Energy Plan and has a good web page describing energy audits and sources of funding for governments and schools.