As energy costs remain volatile and sustainability targets tighten, education estates are under increasing pressure to reduce consumption and improve operational efficiency. While technology upgrades, such as LED lighting, modern BMS systems and solar PV, play a critical role, the reality is that up to 30% of campus energy waste still comes from human behaviour: lights left on, windows open during heating, equipment left on standby, and inefficient use of learning spaces. Forward-thinking FM leaders attending the Education Forum are shifting focus from technology alone to behaviour change at scale, engaging students and staff as active partners in reducing energy use…
Making Energy Visible with Real-Time Dashboards
One of the most effective strategies is increasing visibility. Schools, colleges and universities are deploying real-time public dashboards that show building-by-building energy consumption, CO₂ savings and performance trends.
These screens, displayed in atriums, libraries and student unions, help:
- Raise awareness of energy usage patterns
- Turn sustainability into a shared responsibility
- Encourage competition between departments or residences
- Provide live feedback during energy-saving campaigns
When users can see the impact of their actions, behaviour changes faster and more consistently.
Gamification and Student Engagement
Younger generations are highly responsive to interactive challenges and reward-based initiatives. Institutions are using gamified programmes to encourage better habits, such as:
- Inter-residence competitions to reduce heating or electricity consumption
- Mobile apps awarding points for energy-saving actions
- QR-based ‘switch-off’ checks during holidays
- Eco-ambassador schemes with student leadership roles
These initiatives not only cut costs but build a culture of environmental responsibility that aligns with student expectations.
Energy Champions Across Academic and Professional Services
Behaviour change cannot be driven by FM teams alone. Many institutions now appoint Energy Champions within departments, faculties and admin teams to:
- Lead local energy-saving initiatives
- Promote best practice within their buildings
- Report issues such as faulty sensors, draughts or heating conflicts
- Provide two-way communication between FM and end-users
This decentralised model ensures that small but impactful actions happen consistently across the estate.
Empowering Staff Through Education and Training
Teaching staff and support teams often control the systems that consume the most energy, from AV equipment and IT suites to laboratory facilities. FM teams are running targeted training that covers:
- Efficient classroom heating and ventilation
- Optimal use of lighting and blinds
- Proper equipment shutdown procedures
- Understanding peak-load costs and operational impacts
When staff understand why certain behaviours matter, compliance increases significantly.
A Cultural Shift for Long-Term Savings
Sustainable energy use in education is a campus-wide culture shift. By combining smart engagement strategies with clear communication and strong leadership, schools, colleges and universities can achieve meaningful reductions in both emissions and operating costs.
As we move into 2026, the institutions that excel will be those that treat their students and staff not as consumers of energy, but as partners in managing it.
Are you searching for Energy Management solutions for your school, college or university? The Education Forum can help!
