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Fairfax County Public Schools has saved more than $100 million in cumulative energy costs since 2013 after sharply reducing energy use across its buildings.

The school division cut energy consumption by 31% since 2014, exceeding its 10-year reduction target of 20%. The savings span more than 28 million square feet of building space.

FCPS also reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 46% since 2008, even as its facilities grew by more than three million square feet and student enrollment climbed above 180,000.

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid said the results reflect the division’s effort to provide students with healthy, sustainable learning environments while responsibly managing resources.

FCPS attributed the reductions to energy-efficient construction, upgraded equipment, improved building-management technology and changes in how students and employees use energy.

The division has earned certification through the Collaborative for High Performance Schools Virginia and is considering LEED or Green Globes certification for future projects. Those standards emphasize energy efficiency, indoor air quality, water conservation and sustainable construction materials.

New buildings are also being prepared for possible net-zero energy use, meaning they could eventually produce as much energy as they consume annually by combining efficient design with renewable sources such as solar or wind power.

Since 2022, FCPS has installed LED lighting, improved energy-management systems, removed outdated controls and introduced solar panels. It has also replaced water heaters, HVAC equipment and plumbing fixtures with more efficient models.

Smart meters, energy audits and system upgrades help the division track and reduce consumption. Awareness campaigns and Get2Green classes teach students and staff about conservation and responsible energy use.

Other initiatives include after-school sustainability programs, planned staff training, composting, expanded recycling and environmentally friendly plantings.

Janice Syzmanski, chief of Facilities and Capital Programs, said continued cooperation among county supervisors, School Board members, administrators, student organizations, parent-teacher associations, businesses and community groups will be central to the division’s sustainability work.