Unlocking Budget Stability: Lubbock ISD's Smart Approach to Energy Management
In today’s economic landscape, schools are finding innovative ways to stabilize their budgets while providing high-quality learning environments for students. One effective solution lies in taking a comprehensive approach to energy management— in other words, cutting operational costs, improving energy efficiency, and reinvesting those costs savings into educational priorities.
Lubbock Independent School District (ISD) is one district leading the charge with this smart approach. Their recently announced, district-wide facility modernization project with Schneider Electric shows how strategic energy management can unlock long-term budget stability. By reducing day-to-day energy and maintenance costs, Lubbock ISD is unlocking savings to reinvest into providing better learning environments for students.
Lubbock ISD's district-wide modernization story
Lubbock ISD’s partnership with Schneider Electric marks a transformative moment in the district's budget resilience and operational efficiency. Funded through an energy savings performance contract (ESPC), the district-wide modernization initiative is projected to save the district over $41 million in guaranteed energy savings over the next 20 years, with over $1.3 million in savings expected in the first year alone. These savings will be reinvested into educational programs and resources, enabling Lubbock ISD to maximize the impact of taxpayer dollars.
“Our district is committed to ensuring the best possible learning environment for our students while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars,” said Rick Rodriguez, Chief Operating Officer at Lubbock ISD.
“This partnership enables us to achieve those goals through innovative solutions that align with our mission and vision for the future.”
The project includes several key upgrades aimed at improving infrastructure, increasing energy efficiency, and modernizing facilities:
- Comprehensive interior and exterior LED lighting retrofits at 46 district facilities, delivering substantial energy savings.
Renovations to the Pete Ragus Aquatic Center, including upgraded climate control systems, enhanced ventilation, new boilers and pool equipment, plumbing repairs, and partial roof replacements.- Installation of new LED lighting at Lowrey Field at PlainsCapital Park, providing professional-level sports field illumination.
On April 16th, 2025, Lubbock ISD marked the beginning of its partnership with Schneider Electric through a ceremonial tree planting event at Coronado High School. Held in conjunction with Earth Day, the symbolic act of planting a tree served as a powerful representation of growth, renewal, and the long-term benefits this infrastructure modernization project will bring to the community that the district serves. Attended by district leaders, staff, and the Coronado High School student council, the gathering highlighted how conservation efforts align with Lubbock ISD’s mission to create better learning environments while being prudent stewards of taxpayer funds. The celebration also emphasized the importance of integrating sustainable practices into education, preparing students for a future where resource optimization and environmental stewardship are essential.
An expert partner for school district budget stability
Schneider Electric’s collaboration with Lubbock ISD exemplifies how innovative energy solutions can transform facility challenges into opportunities for long-term success. This approach not only secures budget stability but also addresses aging infrastructure and rising operational costs, allowing districts to do more with limited resources. Through energy savings performance contracts like this one, school districts gain access to advanced energy efficiency technologies without relying on upfront capital, ensuring taxpayer dollars are maximized for the community's benefit.
Visit our K-12 Education Hub to learn more about how Schneider Electric is helping districts nationwide build resilient systems that deliver lasting value for the next generation.