Offices
Using energy-efficient design and technologies in constructing new office buildings can cut energy costs by as much as 50 percent. Energy-smart office buildings incorporate efficient lighting and daylighting systems, as well as advanced windows, roofing, insulation, and mechanical and ventilation systems. These high-performance building designs also consider the use of renewable energy systems, water conservation features, recycling and waste management systems, and environmentally sensitive building products and systems.
In addition to cutting operating costs, energy-smart office buildings actually can enhance the comfort and performance of workers and boost productivity. Many of the same measures that improve a building's energy performance also make it a more comfortable place to work. Employees benefit from the use of daylighting and nontoxic chemicals, plus better temperature control, ventilation, and indoor air quality. With the high cost of labor, payback on energy features is shortened even further when savings from reduced absenteeism are combined with energy cost savings. Energy-efficient building features also help building owners attract and retain tenants.
In existing buildings, renovations that replace older systems with more efficient technology can yield savings of up to 30 percent, with the same positive impact on building comfort. A quick way to realize savings of 10 percent or more—at little or no cost—is to effectively operate and maintain existing systems. Energy-smart behavior, such as turning off lights when leaving a room, helps reduce energy use. Automated controls like occupancy sensors and programmable thermostats ensure reduced energy use in unoccupied offices or infrequently used areas like conference rooms.
An excellent source for constructing energy-efficient, small office buildings (under 20,000 sq. ft.) has been developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Their Advanced Energy Design Guide for Small Office Buildings offers recommendations to achieve energy savings of 30 percent over standard code requirements. The recommendations are organized around eight specific climate zones to ensure the energy savings are achieved in any geographic location in the United States. The ASHRAE Design Guide can be ordered from their Web site.
Energy-Saving Tips:
- Control energy costs and enhance employee comfort by installing energy management systems, occupancy sensors, and programmable thermostats
- Save energy costs and improve productivity through increased use of daylighting
- Reduce lighting loads by installing efficient, or replacing inefficient, fixtures
- Choose ENERGY STAR® computers, printers, copiers, and other office equipment
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has facilitated the creation of the Commercial Building Energy Alliances (CBEAs), which are designed to minimize the energy and environmental impact of commercial buildings and reduce energy costs for these buildings.