Energy Efficiency

 

 

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Solar PowerEnergy Efficiency

As energy prices increase, it becomes increasingly important to conserve energy across all sectors so that energy consumption and costs can be reduced. Doing so not only impacts a building owner's bottom line, but also helps protect our environment.

The commercial building market, for example, encompasses a diverse mix of structures and purposes – from small retail establishments to corporate office parks, from neighborhood schools to regional hospitals, and from multi-family apartment buildings to universities.

Despite their differences, commercial buildings share a large and growing appetite for energy. They account for 18 percent of total U.S. energy consumption. In a typical office building, energy use accounts for 30 percent of operating costs, the largest single category of controllable costs.

The design and construction of energy-smart buildings offers tangible benefits to building owners and occupants and our nation as a whole.

  • Building owners can lower their energy costs by 50 percent or more while lessening maintenance and capital costs.
  • Building occupants realize increased comfort, health and productivity.
  • Our nation conserves energy resources and enjoys cleaner air and a healthier environment.

On the residential side, homeowners can achieve energy savings of 30 percent or more while improving the home's comfort level by adopting energy-efficient building practices. Substantial savings are possible whether building a new home or renovating an existing one. Homeowners who want even more dramatic reductions in utility bills can install on-site energy systems, such as passive solar or photovoltaics, and other forms of renewable energy.

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