Energy Reduction

Energy efficiency reduces the environmental burdens associated with production and using energy. Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration show that buildings are responsible for almost half of (48%) of all energy consumed and greenhouse gases emitted annually.

The approach to energy performance for this building was through the Integrated Design Process, which incorporates the collaboration of all members of the design team at the earliest stages of the project. This approach involves energy modeling of the proposed building and all systems, including the HVAC, lighting, water heating and building envelope. Through this process, each component was optimized with respect to the other systems such that the building’s performance is optimized as a whole.

In addition to energy performance, this process seeks to understand the non-energy related aspects of the design, such as maintenance and equipment life expectancy. The ability of the maintenance staff to properly maintain the equipment allows the building to function throughout the life of the building. This design approach helped in the selection of efficient systems that provide energy cost savings of over 31%.

DID YOU KNOW?

Good News! Current 2018 data shows that U.S. building sector’s CO2 emissions drop are at a 12-year low at 20% below 2005 levels, thanks to energy efficiency and power-sector decarbonization, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.