Forest Edge Elementary School went all out with sustainability—with the roof covered with 1,704 solar panels,  90 geothermal wells, and no natural gas hookup. WOW! No wonder they became the first net-zero school in Wisconsin!

Forest Edge already had an eGauge, but during the commissioning process with Renew Our Schools, the team noticed it did not directly monitor energy flows. Instead, it was publishing data from another meter into their Building Automation System (BAS). Our eGauge expert, Steven Morgan of Bolder Energy Engineers, stepped in with help, making sure the school was competition-ready and could get a better handle on its energy usage.

Steven also spotted a potential issue with their battery system, noting it ran at only 50% efficiency. He suggested they look into this, as it seemed unusually low and could be improved.

Forest Edge secured net zero even before participating in the Renew Our Schools competition. However, it was through participation in the competition that students were able to engage and provide a deeper analysis. A great way to involve students in making their school a better place.

Inspired by their journey? Join the Renew Our Schools competition and help lead the way to a sustainable future. Learn more at ResourceCentral.org/schools or contact us at schools@resourcecentral.org.