Orlando facilities are taking efficient operations seriously, as the DOE’s Better Buildings Challenge has recognized the city for committing to improve energy efficiency by 20% across 20 million square feet in the next ten years. The total commitment spans around 6.8 million square feet and will include a $17.5 million investment in upgrades to municipal buildings on systems such as lighting, HVAC, and building automation and controls.
One Orlando Centre, the city’s showcase project owned by the Orlando-based Parkway Properties, is highlighted by the Better Buildings Challenge for its high performance. Upgrades to the facility’s HVAC system and energy and water improvements cut 18% from its energy usage and avoided the use of over 1.7 million gallons of water, with the improvements saving over $75,000 per year. Replacing older models with high-efficiency chillers and installing window glazing and efficient cooling towers are all noted as keys to the facility’s dramatic utility savings.
