U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Building Technologies Program – Commercial Buildings

Building Type

Each type of commercial building faces specific challenges in its use of energy. There are multiple factors that affect energy consumption. The size and age of a building, how it was designed and constructed, its climate zone, and the purpose it was designed to serve all contribute to how much energy it consumes.

Look further for key energy-related challenges and ideas for reducing energy usage for the following types of commercial buildings:

• Government
• Health care
• Lodging and hospitality
• Offices
• Retail
• K-12 schools

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.