Northeast Collaborative for High Performance Schools

What is NE CHPS? Northeast Collaborative for High Performance Schools (NE CHPS) is a set of building and design standards for all schools from Pre-Kindergarden through Community Colleges. It is based on California's pioneering CHPS guide. It has been tailored specifically for state code requirements, the New England climate, and the environmental priorities of the region. It can be downloaded here (533 kb .pdf file) .

 

Merrimack Valley High School was the first NE CHPS school in New Hampshire. In this picture you can see (l-r) the old building envelope, under construction, and the new exterior.

What is a NE CHPS school? NE CHPS is based on a scorecard system and heavily emphazises quality learning environments and money saving measures. There are seven areas of a school which can earn points, including:

Policy and Operation This area covers the “soft” components of a high performance school such as training personnel in proper maintenance, ensuring that new appliances comply with ENERGY STAR© standards, no idling policies for busses and cars, and purchasing renewable energy credits. Properly adhering to this section of NE CHPS ensures that the school operates to its full potential as an environmentally sound building for future generations. Energy Efficiency Energy needs typically account for 30% of a school’s operations and maintenance budget according to the Department of Energy. Applying modern technology and design strategies to an older school averages a 20% reduction in those costs (or $160,000/year for a 4000 student school). If those same design strategies are integrated at the beginning of the building process, the savings can jump to 40%. Elements which are addressed include primarily heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) components as well as lighting. Renewable Energy One of the most environmentally responsible methods for reducing energy costs is to produce it onsite. As a technology improves and costs lower, more schools are looking towards geothermal heating and cooling, photovoltaic cells, and wind turbines. Not only do these technologies save money for the school, they also serve as a valuable teaching tool for both the school and the community. Water Efficiency Though municipal water supplies are usually plentiful in this region, they represent a large area for conservation. Of the water treated to become potable in the nation, only 1-2% of it is ever consumed by people. The vast majority is used for landscaping and restroom purposes. Schools can adopt strategies such as low flow fixtures, rainwater collection systems, and drought-resistant plants in landscaping. MaterialsThe materials category of NE CHPS ensures that schools use non-toxic building materials and that the facility engages in recycling, both during construction and post-occupancy. The sourcing of materials is also of concern. Credits are given for wood harvested in a sustainable manner as well as materials sourced from within a 500 mile radius. SiteSite selection often seems limited by local spaces, but with attention to detail, it can become an important aspect of the school environment. NE CHPS encourages placing a school away from environmental hazards such as flooding areas, noise sources, and previously polluted areas. Schools can also gain points for integrating the building with the community with features such as sidewalks and accessibility to public transit. The school is also expected to minimize its negative effects on the community by controlling light pollution, footprint, heat island effect, and runoff production. InnovationDesigners and school communities are always encouraged to think “outside the box” and actively pursue policies and innovative performance features which truly represent best practices in sustainability and/or environmental health and safety.

 

How can I learn more? The High Performance Schools Exchange offers presentations and trainings to design and building professionals as well as school administrators and committees. These are available at no cost. and can be scheduled by contacting Carolyn Sarno at csarno@neep.org or at (781)860-9177 x19.