Alabama schools save nearly $25,000 after appliance ban

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

ATHENS, Ala. - Limestone County school officials say they've saved nearly $25,000 on utility bills in three months after teachers removed their mini-refrigerators, microwave ovens, heaters, fans and other personal items from classrooms to save money.

The News-Courier of Athens reports that during March, April and May, the school system has saved $24,367 on utilities compared to the same months last year.

Maintenance Director Steve Wallace said he anticipated that the decision would save money, but he didn't expect it would save as much as it did.

Superintendent Barry Carroll had suggested the idea in March to see whether it would save money.