As rising energy costs consume an increasing amount of operating-budget dollars, most building owners have expanded their reasoning behind why energy management is important.
Not only is it one way to demonstrate environmental stewardship, it’s also a strategy with very realizable effects on the bottom line. When budgets shrink and utility costs escalate, energy management is no longer important - it’s critical.
Until zero-energy buildings become a widespread phenomenon, the quest to use less energy more wisely will continue to be a priority. If you’re looking to benchmark your energy management, five by-the-book examples follow. These organizations demonstrate that it’s not only about efficient equipment and operation - it’s also about changing behavior.
- Colorado Springs School District No. 11
- University of California, San Diego
- Accor North America
- Merck & Co. Inc.
- Andrews Air Force Base
Jana J. Madsen ([email protected]) is managing editor at Buildings magazine.
