Boosting Building Energy Efficiency

Summary

This article provides eight actionable strategies for state government officials to improve energy efficiency in new buildings. From establishing clear goals and incentivizing efficiency to enforcing building codes and leading by example, these steps offer a roadmap for sustainable building practices. By implementing these strategies, states can significantly reduce energy consumption and create a greener future.

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Powering Down: Smart Energy Choices for New Builds

Okay, so you’re a state government official and looking to make a real dent in energy consumption? Excellent. This guide lays out eight key strategies to boost energy efficiency in new building construction, and honestly, it’s a game changer. Think of it as a practical roadmap to not just saving energy, but also creating a more sustainable future. Who wouldn’t want that?

Getting Ready for Success

1. Set Clear Goals, Like, Really Clear: Don’t just say you want to be “more efficient.” Before you dive into the specifics, nail down measurable energy efficiency targets for those new buildings. That’s your North Star, and it’ll help you track progress effectively. For example, aim for a 20% drop in energy use in new buildings statewide within, say, five years compared to what we’re seeing now. Break it down even further—residential, commercial, public—each has its own energy quirks.

2. Show Me the Money (Incentives, That Is): Want builders and developers to hop on board? Money talks. Create attractive financial and tax incentives for them to embrace energy-efficient practices. Offer grants, rebates, or even tax breaks for projects that go above and beyond the minimum requirements. And don’t forget about cool financing options, such as green bonds. I remember, we worked on a project, that offered tax credits covering up to 30% of the extra costs of installing high-efficiency HVAC systems in new commercial buildings. It was a win-win.

Building for a Brighter Future

1. Beef Up Those Building Codes: Look, building codes are the bare minimum, but we need to push past that. Update and enforce stringent energy codes that include the latest and greatest in building science and technology. Make it mandatory to use energy-efficient materials, appliances, and design principles in all new construction. And it will pay back, as this will reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. I’m thinking, we require higher levels of insulation in walls and roofs than what the state building code mandates.

2. Lead by Doing: Talk is cheap, right? Show, don’t tell. Demonstrate the benefits of energy efficiency by setting high standards in state-funded building projects. Turn state facilities into shining examples of energy-efficient design, construction, and operation. That’ll inspire the private sector to follow suit. For example, why not construct all new state government buildings to meet LEED Gold standards? That’s a benchmark that sends a strong message. Setting a good example is crucial here.

Widening the Circle

1. Embrace Energy Efficiency Resource Standards (EERS): Now, let’s get utilities involved. Set targets for energy savings to be achieved through utility-sponsored efficiency programs. These standards provide a framework for systematic energy reduction across the building sector. I would set a target that demands utilities achieve a certain percentage of their electricity sales through energy efficiency programs targeted at new buildings. It’s a great way to encourage utilities to actively promote energy-efficient practices among builders and developers.

2. Get Smart with Rate Structures: Promote electricity rate structures that actually reward energy conservation. Implement time-of-use pricing, where electricity costs more during peak demand times. This gives people a real incentive to design and operate buildings more efficiently. Imagine those time-of-use electricity rates for commercial buildings; it would really encourage energy-efficient management during peak hours.

Measuring and Improving

1. Keep an Eye on Things: This is where monitoring and verification comes in. Track the performance of your energy efficiency programs and building codes. Collect data on energy consumption in those new buildings to see what’s working, what’s not, and where you can improve. Consider regular audits of a sampling of new buildings across different sectors, to verify compliance with energy codes and measure their actual energy performance.

2. Always Be Innovating: Don’t get stuck in your ways. Continuously search for new technologies and strategies to boost building energy efficiency. Pilot innovative building designs, materials, and technologies to gauge their effectiveness and potential for broader adoption. We should encourage research and development in building energy efficiency, supporting pilot projects and demonstrations of innovative tech like smart building management systems and advanced insulation materials.

It’s all about creating buildings that are not only energy-efficient, but also comfortable, healthy, and sustainable. It’s a worthwhile goal, and frankly, it’s one we can’t afford to ignore. What kind of legacy do you want to leave?