Information Services & Technology Department Efforts
At San Luis Coastal School District, we realize that technology is a key tool in instruction and learning. We annually update our computers, hardware, and software to ensure we are putting the right tools into the hands of our students and staff. As we bring on new equipment, sustainability is one of the aspects that we look at. This not only reduces our drain on the grid, it also saves us taxpayer funds. Recent efforts to save energy include:
Server Virtualization
All servers are configured inside a virtual environment. Server virtualization significantly reduces energy consumption in data centers by consolidating servers and improving resource utilization. This approach can result in energy savings of up to 80%.
Traditional Approach
In the past, data center operators typically installed at least one physical server per application. This led to most servers running at a low utilization rate—often as low as 6 to 12% or even less. This inefficiency resulted in a significant waste of energy.
Virtualization Solution
Server virtualization allows running multiple different workloads on one physical host server. Instead of operating many servers at low utilization, virtualization combines processing power onto fewer servers that operate at higher total utilization.
Technology E-Waste
We E-waste recycle all computer equipment, batteries, and printer ink cartridges. The computer equipment is sent to an E-waste facility that sorts, shreds and separates the rare earth minerals like copper, gold, palladium, and silver. Then separates materials that can be reused in the production of new products.
Television Sleep Settings
All TVs are set up to automatically shut off at 6:00 PM daily. Assuming your TV consumes an average of 100 watts when it’s on, this results in daily energy savings of 1.35 kilowatt-hours. Over a month, this amounts to approximately $4.86 per TV. With 312 TVs installed, the potential maximum annual power savings would be $18,000.
Energy Efficient Network Switches
We are in the process of upgrading our network infrastructure with a focus on energy efficiency. As of now, we have deployed 13 of the new energy efficient network switches. Over the next two years, we plan to replace all of the existing 106 switches with these energy efficient models.
Energy and Cost Savings
The current network switches have an idle power utilization of 46 watts. In contrast, the new switches have an idle power utilization of just 30.6 watts. This reduction in power usage translates to significant cost saving and 33% reduction in energy usage. Specifically, the daily cost savings per switch is calculated as follows: 1.633 kilowatt-hours x $0.12 = $0.1959. Over a month, this amounts to approximately $5.87 per switch. When extrapolated to the entire district, we estimate an annual savings of approximately $7,579.
Computer Sleep Settings
All computers are configured to automatically enter Sleep Mode after one hour of inactivity. By utilizing Sleep Mode, we significantly reduce energy consumption during periods when computers are not actively in use. According to a recent study, putting PCs to sleep at night can save approximately $2 per month in energy usage. Extrapolating this to the entire district, we estimate an annual savings of approximately $44,000.
Noise Pollution Reduction
Another benefit of the new switches is the reduction in noise pollution. The current network switches run their internal fans constantly during operation, which has led to complaints about the constant noise, particularly in classrooms where the switches are installed. The new switches, however, only run their fans when necessary and operate in silent mode for the most part.
By making these transitions, we are not only improving our network infrastructure but also contributing to environmental sustainability and creating a more conducive learning environment.