Number of Energy-Efficient Buildings Nears 2,000

As of late January 2005, the number of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ENERGY STAR buildings neared 2,000. These energy-efficient buildings are estimated to save $200 million annually and reduce approximately 6 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions – equivalent to the emissions of 500,000 cars. To qualify as ENERGY STAR, buildings must use about 40-percent less energy without compromising comfort or services.The 1,964 buildings nationwide that qualify for the ENERGY STAR lable represent nearly 400 million square feet. More than 900 offices and 400 public schools were among the top-performing buildings. The remaining 655 labeled buildings include supermarkets, medical offices, hospitals, and hotels. ENERGY STAR buildings can be found in every state and the District of Columbia, with California (500) and Texas (250) boasting the highest number of qualifying buildings. Just last year, more than 700 buildings received the ENERGY STAR label. For a complete list of ENERGY STAR buildings, by state, visit (www.energystar.gov/buildings2004).A score of 75 or higher on the EPA’s 100-point national energy rating scale must be earned by buildings to qualify for the ENERGY STAR label. The average of all buildings qualifying for ENERGY STAR through 2004 is 84. Buildings must also meet industry standards for comfort and indoor air quality, as verified by a professional engineer, for eligibility. For more information, visit (www.energystar.gov) or call (888) STAR-YES.This information was provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR.