BY ROGER SMTIH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Martin County High School is in the top 25% of buildings nationwide for energy performance. The school earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR certification for superior energy performance.

ENERGY STAR-certified buildings and plants are verified to perform in the top 25% of buildings nationwide based on weather-normalized source energy use that considers occupancy, hours of operation and other key metrics. ENERGY STAR is the only energy efficiency certification in the United States based on actual verified energy performance. 

“We’re honored to earn the ENERGY STAR for superior energy performance, and appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in its efficient operation,” Martin County Schools Superintendent Larry James said. “We fully expect the Martin County ATC will also earn this distinction in the near future. Saving energy is just one of the ways we show our community we care and are committed to doing our part to protect the environment and public health, both today and for future generations.”

James credits this success to energy efficiency measures implemented at the high school.

“Careful consideration was made to the operational efficiency during the planning and construction phase of the school, which can be attributed to the efforts of members of the Martin County Board of Education,” he added.

On average, ENERGY STAR-certified buildings and plants use 35% less energy, cause 35% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and are less expensive to operate than their peers—all without sacrificing performance or comfort.