Over 100,000 kWh of heat saved – new software aims to improve energy management
The Groß-Gerau district is drawing a positive conclusion from its school project "Climate in Focus – Schools Save Energy ." With the goal of reducing energy consumption at the district's 48 schools, a total of 106,810 kWh of heat energy saved during the 2024/25 heating season – equivalent to the annual heat demand of up to 15 classrooms.
The project is part of the district's comprehensive climate protection strategy, which includes, among other things, the solar and renovation campaign , the climate symposium , the preparation of wind reports, urban climate analyses , and a climate adaptation concept . The district office's renewed Ökoprofit certification this year also underscores its ongoing commitment to environmental and resource protection.
"Our schools make an important contribution to climate protection. They demonstrate that energy savings are possible not only through technology, but also through conscious behavior in everyday life," says the district administration.
Differences between school districts
The results of the project, which was carried out in cooperation between the Climate Protection Department and the Construction and Technology Department , show regional differences:
- District North achieved a saving of 2.2% ,
- District South reduced consumption by 1.4% ,
- Mitte district however, energy consumption rose by 1.2% .
The reasons for the increase in the Mitte district are currently being analyzed. The overall savings for the entire district are -0.8% .
Outlook and next steps
The project is paused for the current heating season as the district new energy management software that will simplify the collection and analysis of consumption data in the future. In parallel, further measures planned on two levels:
- Technical improvements such as renovations and energy-related maintenance measures.
- Pilot projects at three schools focusing on the conscious use of energy and the behavior of users.
In the long term, the Groß-Gerau district is not only concerned with cost savings, but also with sustainability, role modeling, and securing the future . Schools that invest in energy efficiency are better prepared for rising energy costs and climate change. Furthermore, the involvement of teachers, students, and parents strengthens a sense of community and awareness of a sustainable future.
(Gross-Gerau-Red/PSGG)
