Pinellas reports 57 schools earn Energy Star certification; district, vendor outline energy savings

Pinellas County Schools and energy partner Synergistic announced May 13 that 57 district schools earned Energy Star building certification for superior energy performance for calendar year 2024, marking the district’s eighth year receiving the recognition.

Chief Operating Officer Herbeck told the board the Energy Star certification program is run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and that certified buildings, on average, operate more efficiently and cost less to run than non‑certified peers. He said Energy Star‑certified buildings operate at about “54¢ less per square foot” to operate than noncertified buildings, and that Synergistic’s presentation detailed national performance metrics.

Butch Collier of Synergistic told the board that Energy Star‑certified buildings typically use about 35% less energy, produce about 35% fewer greenhouse gas emissions and are less expensive to operate than peers. Synergistic staff said Energy Star certification is based on verified energy performance and that a building must rank in the top 25% nationwide on the EPA’s National Energy Performance Rating System to qualify.

As part of the recognition, the district and Synergistic will distribute certificates to qualifying schools. The board received the presentation in a celebratory item and took no formal vote.

During public comment on agenda items, speaker Mark Clutho criticized recent building projects and raised concerns about heat‑island effects tied to building materials; his remarks referenced the district’s facilities and the Energy Star discussion in the meeting’s preceding items.

The district said the recognition reflects sustained energy‑management practices and partnership with its vendor.