Federal Energy Use Drops to Lowest Levels Since 1975

While the U.S. government has a significant demand for energy, its consumption is down to the lowest levels recorded since measurements began in 1975, according to the DOE’s Federal Energy Management Program. In FY 2013, the federal government’s total delivered-to-site energy use dropped to 0.96 quadrillion BTUs from more than 1 quadrillion in 2012, at a cost of $24 billion – with federal facilities making up 38% of the total.

While the total square feet occupied by the federal government and energy consumed per square foot inside federal buildings continues to fall, the EIA points to sustainability goals established by the Energy Independence Act of 2007, requiring buildings to reduce energy intensity by at least 3% each year and reduce energy consumption from fossil fuels by 65% in any property undergoing extensive renovations.

Also playing a role is the Executive Order from President Obama in 2009 that set targets for federal buildings to meet energy efficiency, water efficiency, and environmental impact guidelines in 95% of contracts undertaken for products and services, as well as reduce potable water consumption intensity by 2% each year.