Zero-energy buildings: The trend continues
Zero-energy buildings: The trend continues The number of buildings that take no more energy than they provide continues to grow. The concept of a net-zero energy building isn’t exactly new. Over the past 10 years several examples have been developed around the U.S., many of which come in at well under 10,000 square feet. But, [...]
A Winning Light Bulb With the Potential to Save the Nation Billions
Thomas Edison would be amazed. The conventional light bulb has got some serious competition. The 60-watt incandescent light bulb — an estimated 425 million of which are sold each year — has been technologically stunted for nearly a century. But an electrifying energy-saving alternative, which could arrive in stores as soon as early 2012, has [...]
Back To The Future: The Smart Energy District
Back To The Future: A Smart Energy District Solar Technology and Sustainable Design & Development The Historic Green Village at Anna Maria Background Today’s power industry is built around centralized generation, transmission and distribution of electricity utilizing primarily coal, natural gas and uranium as fuel sources. For several years, a new model for more distributed [...]
U.S. cities, states require large buildings to cite energy use
Wonder how high the utility bills will be at that apartment you like? To help consumers and spur efficiency, U.S. states and cities are beginning this year to require that commercial buildings measure and disclose their energy use. The new rules, which generally exempt small businesses, are expected to shame building owners into upgrades that [...]
Senate Legislation Calls for Zero-Net-Energy Buildings by 2030
A Bi-Partisan Congressional Effort Lands the 2030 Challenge Targets Back on the Senate Floor The Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act of 2011 was introduced yesterday by Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). The bill places meeting the 2030 Challenge target of zero-net-energy for new buildings by 2030 as the first item in a comprehensive strategy for U.S. energy reductions in [...]
Energy Efficiency is a Good Business Decision, Especially Now!
The following is an excerpt from an article that was written for publication by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), February 2009 by Neil Zobler, Catalyst Financial Group, Inc, and Robert Sauchelli, U.S. EPA ENERGY STAR® Energy efficiency is always a good business decision, especially now in a down economy. Add to it the value [...]
Global Energy Efficiency Sees Growth in 2010
A new study finds optimism and expansion in commercial energy efficiency across the globe. Energy efficiency continues to grow in importance over the past year despite the still-struggling global economy, according to the latest global survey on the subject by Johnson Controls and the International Facility Management Association. The international drivers for energy efficiency are based in [...]
Regenerative Dual Duct: An Overview
Regenerative Dual Duct: An Overview System helps ensure VAV systems provide adequate ventilation The energy crisis of the 1970s led industry experts and legislators to conclude that buildings needed more insulation, infiltration required additional control, and ventilation rates had to be reduced. This had the unintended consequence of depressing indoor-air quality (IAQ). By 1989, this [...]
