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Households throughout Northern Ireland are already feeling the strain of rising energy prices. One contributing factor to this surge is the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which has been linked to increased energy costs. This context has prompted the Education Authority (EA) to address the issue directly with school leaders.
In a letter sent to head teachers, the EA highlighted the significant financial impact expected in the 2026/27 fiscal year due to recent geopolitical developments. They forecast that the total gas bills for schools will jump by 60%, increasing from £10.7 million to £17 million by March 2027. Electricity expenses are also projected to rise, though to a lesser degree, with an estimated 5% increase from £23.8 million to £25.1 million within the same period.
With these anticipated hikes in mind, the EA has urged all schools to carefully examine their energy consumption and seek out ways to cut back wherever feasible. Suggested strategies include reducing daily heating by one hour and utilizing natural daylight by turning off classroom lights. Additionally, both staff and pupils have been encouraged to dress warmly instead of relying on heightened heating settings during colder days.
Despite these recommendations, school principals have expressed that cutting energy usage is not a simple task. Kirsty Logan-Hall, principal of Tullygally Primary School, explained that while her school is dedicated to promoting energy-conscious behavior among staff and students, their ability to significantly reduce usage is limited. She noted that the school’s older building poses inherent energy efficiency challenges and the campus layout requires heating and lighting multiple areas to maintain suitable learning environments and ensure the welfare of pupils, including those with special needs. Logan-Hall emphasized that substantial energy reductions could negatively affect educational quality, employee working conditions, and student wellbeing
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