Home	Abstract
Intro	Hypothesis
Methods	Data
Analysis	Conclusion
Appendix	Thanks

Focus of Study

Clackamas High School was designed for energy efficiency in a number of ways. The classrooms are oriented to take full advantage of daylighting. Daylight sensors, as part of an integrated control system, dim or turn off the lights as more daylight enters the classroom. Occupancy sensors are also used to turn off the lights when a room is unoccupied. The HVAC system allows for as much natural ventilation as possible.

With all the design effort taken to reduce energy consumption, it was troubling to hear that the energy costs at Clackamas were higher than anticipated.

What is causing the higher energy costs?

Boora Architects

Is the building being utilized for more hours than anticipated?

Clackamas has very fine athletic and fine arts facilities that are being used not only for school functions, but for community functions as well. Instead of being used only during school hours, the school is used frequently at nights and on weekends.

Is the HVAC running a greater percentage of time than planned for?

The occupants of the school may not be operating the system properly, not opening the vents in the classrooms to take advantage of the natural ventilation for example.

The electric lights are on when the rooms are unoccupied or when daylight is available.

This is the focus of our case study. We investigated the schools energy consumption, specifically looking at the lighting system in the classrooms at North Clackamas High School.