Press Releases

Today, U.S. Congressmen Matt Cartwright (D-PA-17) and Peter Welch (D-VT-At Large) introduced H.R. 4092, the bipartisan Streamlining Energy Efficiency for Schools Act.  First introduced in the Senate by Mark Udall (D-CO) and Susan Collins (R-ME), this common-sense, no-cost legislation would promote environmental and cost-saving initiatives in our nation’s schools.  

The legislation would streamline existing federal initiatives – currently spread across the executive branch – and establish the Department of Energy (DOE) as the lead agency in coordinating efforts to help initiate, develop, and finance energy projects for schools.  The legislation would require DOE to provide technical assistance to help schools navigate the existing federal programs and financing options available.  States, school boards, and local officials would retain their autonomy about how to best meet the energy needs of their schools.  

“Our children deserve to attend school in a safe and comfortable learning environment.  Studies indicate that a better physical environment contributes to increased learning and productivity.  Additionally, we must utilize energy in an efficient, responsible, and effective manner if we are to attain energy self-sufficiency,” said Cartwright.  “This legislation allows us to accomplish both goals.  It alleviates burdens on school administrators by establishing an efficient one-stop shop for schools giving administrators the time and resources to better meet our students’ needs.”  

“Too many of our nation’s schools are in dire need of repairs.  Outdated and inefficient heating, cooling and ventilation systems are wasting millions of dollars on utility costs that could be better spent on education and school improvements,” said Welch.  “By streamlining existing programs and cutting red tape, our bill will help save energy and cut energy bills for school systems around the country.”

An estimated 14 million American children attend deteriorating public schools.  Many of these schools’ problems involve the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems.  According to a Department of Education survey, 43 percent of schools indicated that the poor condition of their facilities interferes with the delivery of instruction.  By upgrading these systems, energy efficiency is increased, learning environments are improved, and scarce funds are conserved.