From Classrooms to Climate Action: Teachers Workshop on Energy Saving and Efficiency
On April 17, the Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) organized a workshop for teachers on “Reducing Energy Consumption Through Implementing Energy Saving and Efficiency Measures in Schools.” The event was held at SJK(C) Union, and we are thankful to the school for warmly hosting us. A total of 94 teachers from schools in Penang island participated in the workshop, reflecting strong interest and commitment to energy conservation in education.
The workshop aimed to equip educators with practical and impactful strategies to reduce electricity usage in schools, an important step in protecting the environment and saving costs. Participants discussed effective measures that schools can implement, such as appointing student energy monitors, setting daily energy use targets and integrating awareness into school culture.
We were inspired by Cik Nur Nadia Zarifah from SMK Methodist Perempuan (MGS), who shared her school’s efforts in building a strong energy-saving culture. From assigning student energy monitors to displaying energy usage charts and using indoor plants to cool classrooms naturally, their approach showed how small steps can make a big impact. Some schools have even managed to lower their electricity bills through CAP’s School Energy Saving Programme!
Officers from Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) shared insightful information on Malaysia’s electricity consumption and introduced key concepts such as brown energy (from fossil fuels) and green energy (from clean sources like solar and wind). TNB also outlined their goal to transition to a net-zero, coal-free energy system by 2050 and highlighted how energy efficiency is the first step in that journey.
The session also covered smart meters, now installed in 94% of Penang Island homes, and how they help track electricity usage in real time through the MyTNB app. This technology empowers users to set budgets and receive alerts, promoting more conscious energy habits. TNB also discussed the potential of solar panels for homes and schools, although battery costs are currently high, prices are expected to become more accessible in the near future.
The workshop ended with a powerful reminder: schools are essential in shaping the next generation of environmentally responsible citizens. By working together – teachers, students, families and communities – we can build a greener, smarter and more sustainable future starting right from our classrooms.
Thank you to all the participants, speakers and partners who made this workshop a success. Let’s continue this journey together!
#energyefficiency #EnergySavings #ClimateChange #ClimateAction #ecoschool #GreenFuture #greenenergy #SustainableEducation #SustainableFuture #SmartMeter