While leaders at Ozark Public Schools in Ozark, Mo., knew that transitioning to LED lighting could save money, they were uncertain about how to fund the project. Working with Trane, the district was able to realize a transformative solution by conducting an in-depth audit and developing a strategic plan that leveraged available rebates and incentives.
School LED Lighting Upgrade Brings Savings and Efficiency
“They came in and did a complete audit of our systems and looked at our lighting across the district,” said Dr. Curtis Chesick, Assistant Superintendent of Operations.
“We just didn't have an understanding of how much we would eventually be able to save by switching the entire district over to LED lighting at one time,” he said. “Trane was able to walk us through the process of how we would be able to recoup our investment through rebates and how it was going to offset our payments.”
The lighting replacement is just one aspect of a comprehensive $14.88 million upgrade completed by the district. Following the installation of the energy-efficient lighting upgrades, the district received a rebate check of $102,637.92 from the local utility company. The new lighting is projected to help reduce utility costs by 32 percent.
Additionally, since LED lamps and fixtures last up to five times longer1, staff will need to replace lighting less frequently, thereby increasing their productivity and reducing maintenance, repair, and operation costs.
Improving the Learning Environment: Benefits of LED Lighting in Schools
While cost savings are a significant advantage, upgrading to LED lighting can also enhance the learning environment for students by providing consistent and reliable illumination.
It also offers teachers greater control over the classroom lighting. Research has shown that lighting can improve classroom performance and concentration by mimicking natural light cycles2. LED lighting contributes to better indoor environmental quality (IEQ) by reducing flickers and providing more stable light output, which can lead to fewer headaches and less discomfort for both teachers and students3. This helps promote a healthier and more productive educational setting.
Learning Continues Uninterrupted During School LED Lighting Upgrade
Building use and student learning continued seamlessly throughout the lighting upgrade process.
“The lighting upgrade was completed during the second shift from 4 p.m. to midnight so there was no need to interrupt classes,” said Jason Dial, Trane’s General Sales Manager and Public Sector Consultant, who also is a retired public-school superintendent. “By the next day, the only noticeable change was the new lighting,” he said.
