TEP is helping local schools provide more comfortable and energy-efficient learning environments while reducing long-term energy needs for our entire community.
In 2025, 21 local schools qualified for free upgrades through the TEP Schools Energy Efficiency Program, helping them achieve lower bills and greater sustainability.
Qualified schools were provided with upgrades like new heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) or energy management systems, tune-ups and new lighting. Energy management systems (EMS) use smart controls to optimize heating and cooling.
Since 2016, TEP has equipped schools with energy-efficient solutions under this Arizona Corporation Commission-approved program, which is funded through the Demand Side Management (DSM) surcharge on customers’ bills. Initially focused on lighting upgrades, the program now includes HVAC systems, energy management tools, and tune-ups.
Such measures decrease schools’ electric bills, while also reducing the strain on the overall electric grid, providing a benefit to all. For schools, energy savings can free up funds to address classroom needs.
“This program is an investment in healthier learning environments, lower utility bills, and a stronger, more sustainable community,” said Edith Garcia, Senior Program Manager of Energy Programs. “By reducing energy use and improving equipment efficiency, schools can redirect projected savings toward educational resources, and inspiring the next generation to value sustainability.”
One of the recipients was the Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (ASDB), which was granted a new HVAC system. This is the second time that ASDB has received benefits from this program: In 2019, LED lighting was installed on campus in indoor and outdoor spaces.
“We are extremely grateful to TEP for providing six air conditioning units to our Tucson campus. Without their generous support, we would not be able to continue serving our students in the best learning environment possible,” said Superintendent Annette Reichman.
Here is a list of the schools that qualified for measures:
- Academy of Tucson Middle School, HVAC and lighting
- Agua Caliente Elementary School, EMS
- Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, HVAC
- Borton Magnet Elementary School, HVAC
- Eastpointe High School, HVAC and lighting
- Emily Gray Junior High, EMS
- Highland Free School, HVAC and lighting
- Las Puertas Community School, HVAC
- Lineweaver Elementary School, HVAC
- Sabino High School, lighting
- Sahuarita Unified School District: HVACs for Walden Grove High, Sopori Elementary and Anza Trail, HVAC
- Tanque Verde Elementary School, EMS
- Tanque Verde High School, EMS
- Tucson International Academy – HVACs for the Broadway Downtown and Broadway West campuses
- Tucson Youth Development, HVACs for Ace Charter High School, Youthworks Charter School, and Tucson Youth Development campuses.
- White Elementary School, HVAC
Additional schools will be selected to receive no-cost measures in 2026.
In addition, TEP’s K-12 Schools Program allows other schools to apply for rebates, enabling energy-efficient upgrades at a discounted cost. The Tucson Unified School District (TUSD) has used these rebates lately during its construction with funds from the bond program. TUSD recently won a TEP Net Zero Hero Award for its energy-efficiency efforts.
