Spatial and Temporal Analysis of Aggregated Energy Use Data in Los Angeles Schools

Schools and other public buildings are significant energy consumers. Their public status also makes them a focus for implementing energy conservation measures, including insulation, cool roofs and better shading, along with... [ view full abstract ]

Schools and other public buildings are significant energy consumers. Their public status also makes them a focus for implementing energy conservation measures, including insulation, cool roofs and better shading, along with on-site electricity generation such as rooftop solar. Despite this potential, limited information exists regarding current electricity and natural gas consumption patterns in schools that can help support energy planning and benchmarking. We present an analysis of monthly electricity and natural gas consumption for schools in Los Angeles County from 2006-2010. Using a robust database of account-level consumption from the LA Energy Atlas, we examine electricity and natural gas use in schools based on size, geography and school type. Results show that school energy use varies greatly based on socio-demographic and structural factors, as well as across climate zones. Additionally, the correlation between electricity and natural gas consumption in a school is time dependent and seasonally distinct.  The analysis is provides a uniquely broad case study widely examining consumption patterns across a large data set of hundreds of schools using account-level data. We conclude with a discussion of policy implications of results.