OCOEE, Fla., April 5 (UPI) -- Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham announced Monday in Ocoee, Fla., a new energy-saving software which will help U.S. schools reduce their utility bills.
"The ability to pin-point energy use in our nation's schools will give school districts the tool to assess where they can save energy, and save money," Abraham said. "Not only will energy be saved, the students will have the opportunity to learn more about the cost of energy and smart energy use."
Florida's schools are the first in the nation to demonstrate the Web-based "Utility Report Card," which tracks, evaluates and charts energy consumption in schools.
Walt Disney World Resorts was the first to track energy consumption throughout its parks and resorts. The same modified software allows school districts to pin-point energy use and expenditures.
"Currently Orange County Public Schools spend about $55 million a year on energy," said Orange County School Board Chairman Bert Carrier. "Ultimately, our goal is to direct our limited resources where they are most needed -- in the classrooms."
