WAUSAU, Wis. -- A new study by a group trying to save energy concluded that up to 300 schools in Wisconsin could switch to wood heat and save hundreds of thousands of dollars in energy costs.

The Focus on Energy study said the switch, based on current natural gas prices, would save schools up to $75,000 each year in energy costs, paying for the investments within years.

Don Wichert, director for Focus on Energy's renewable energy program, said the study shows there's a clear potential for schools in northern and southwest Wisconsin to make the conversion.

According to the study, only 11 schools, all the northwest corner of the state, heat with wood or corn.

Focus on Energy is a state program designed to promote energy efficiency.