Imagine trying to get directions without knowing the starting address. Or assembling a competitive sports team without holding tryouts to rank and compare athletes. Or even attempting to lose weight without stepping on a scale to figure out how much you weigh now. You end up lost, unaware of how your competition is doing, and oblivious to how to achieve your goal. To get to where you want to go, you have to know where you are now. Benchmarking a building’s energy performance is placing your building on the map.
As energy prices increase and building operating costs climb, property managers and owners are seeking out sustainable options—not only to lower their environmental impact, but also to improve their bottom line and gain a competitive edge over their peers. City and state governments are addressing the vast amount of energy consumed by the building sector by requiring benchmarking and disclosure of energy performance. This seems to be a growing trend as there are several legislative bodies that have similar mandates on the table.
This is a blog supporting discussion surrounding the EDIN (Energy Development in Island Nations) USVI (United States Virgin Islands) EEWG (Energy Efficiency Working Group). We welcome Virgin Island residents, businesses, government officials, utilities, and relevant consultants and commerical interests to participate. We are in the process of introducing the "VIenergize" campaign; energizing the Virgin Islands' pursuit of reduced fossil fuel consumption.
Monday, August 29, 2011
The Advanced Energy Design Guide for Small to Medium Office Buildings: Solutions to Achieve 50% Energy Savings in Office Buildings
The 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) series follows six volumes of award winning 30% guides. The AEDGs are the result of a partnership between DOE, ASHRAE, AIA, IESNA and USGBC, and the next group of publications will provide guidance on achieving 50% savings over ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004. The first guide in the new series, 50% AEDG for Small to Medium Office Buildings, is currently available for free download. This no-cost webinar provides an overview of the 50% series and outlines recommendations for energy savings in both small and medium office buildings.
Guidelines for Home Energy Upgrade Professionals—Project Overview
The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Guidelines for Home Energy Upgrade Professionals project (hereafter the Guidelines) fosters the growth of a high quality residential energy upgrade industry and a skilled and credentialed workforce.
Colombia y Panamá firman acuerdo de interconexión eléctrica
El ministro de Minas y Energía aseguró que el trazado no pasará el Tapón del Darién, una zona selvática entre Colombia y Panamá, considerada como un santuario de biodiversidad, y que a cambio bordeará la costa del océano Atlántico.
En el pasado grupos ambientalistas criticaron el proyecto por el posible paso de la línea por estas reservas naturales en donde habitan comunidades indígenas.
ISA es una compañía de origen colombiano focalizada en los negocios de transporte de energía eléctrica, transporte de telecomunicaciones, concesiones viales, operación y administración de mercados y construcción de proyectos de infraestructura. La empresa tiene presencia en Colombia, Brasil, Perú, Chile, Bolivia, Ecuador, Argentina, Panamá y América Central.
Tiene un costo de US$420 millones y abre puertas a la venta de energía de generadores colombianos. Así lo reveló este lunes el ministro de Minas y Energía, Carlos Rodado Noriega, luego de firmar el documento con el ministro de Economia y Finanzas de Panamá, Alberto Vallarino, entre ISA de Colombia y la panameña Etesa.
En el pasado grupos ambientalistas criticaron el proyecto por el posible paso de la línea por estas reservas naturales en donde habitan comunidades indígenas.
ISA es una compañía de origen colombiano focalizada en los negocios de transporte de energía eléctrica, transporte de telecomunicaciones, concesiones viales, operación y administración de mercados y construcción de proyectos de infraestructura. La empresa tiene presencia en Colombia, Brasil, Perú, Chile, Bolivia, Ecuador, Argentina, Panamá y América Central.
Tiene un costo de US$420 millones y abre puertas a la venta de energía de generadores colombianos. Así lo reveló este lunes el ministro de Minas y Energía, Carlos Rodado Noriega, luego de firmar el documento con el ministro de Economia y Finanzas de Panamá, Alberto Vallarino, entre ISA de Colombia y la panameña Etesa.
Ford and Toyota Team Up to Put Hybrid Trucks and SUVs in Fast Lane
Ford Motor Co. and Toyota Motor Corp. will bring their research and development forces together to accelerate the creation of a hybrid vehicle system for trucks and SUVs.
The partnership is also likely to help the companies meet U.S. fuel economy standards quicker than operating alone.
Ford and Toyota said they've been working individually on rear-wheel-drive hybrid systems, but the two companies started looking at combining their efforts earlier this tear after initial discussions between Ford CEO Alan Mulally and Toyota President Akio Toyoda in an airport lobby.
"The point of collaborating is to deliver better technology that is more affordable and accessible for our customers," said Nancy Gioia, Ford's global director of electrification. "Both Ford and Toyota have extensive HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) knowledge and capabilities. By collaborating together, we bring the expertise together along with shared investment and scale to develop a customer focused system at the best possible costs.".
This isn't the first time the two companies were involved in hybrids together. In 2004, when Ford was making its first foray into hybrids, it licensed some of Toyota's patents on gasoline-electric hybrid engine systems.
The new partnership still has some kinks to work out, namely who is doing what research, and a formal agreement is planned for next year. The companies expect a hybrid system developed by the partnership to be in vehicles later in the late 2010s.
The partnership is also likely to help the companies meet U.S. fuel economy standards quicker than operating alone.
Ford and Toyota said they've been working individually on rear-wheel-drive hybrid systems, but the two companies started looking at combining their efforts earlier this tear after initial discussions between Ford CEO Alan Mulally and Toyota President Akio Toyoda in an airport lobby.
"The point of collaborating is to deliver better technology that is more affordable and accessible for our customers," said Nancy Gioia, Ford's global director of electrification. "Both Ford and Toyota have extensive HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) knowledge and capabilities. By collaborating together, we bring the expertise together along with shared investment and scale to develop a customer focused system at the best possible costs.".
This isn't the first time the two companies were involved in hybrids together. In 2004, when Ford was making its first foray into hybrids, it licensed some of Toyota's patents on gasoline-electric hybrid engine systems.
The new partnership still has some kinks to work out, namely who is doing what research, and a formal agreement is planned for next year. The companies expect a hybrid system developed by the partnership to be in vehicles later in the late 2010s.
Fitting Sustainability into the CFO's Job Description
Making sustainability a core aspect of business creates more, and new, work for employees. In the case of chief financial officers (CFOs), it not only leads to new responsibilities, but also offers CFOs the chance to bring their expertise and experience to sustainability.
As investors demand more details of sustainability efforts and companies are expected to understand and talk about climate change-related risks they face, CFOs need to have solid knowledge of all aspects of their companies' sustainability programs, Ernst & Young say in a report on the changing role of CFOs.
Not only should CFOs know what their companies are up to, but they also need to understand broader sustainability issues and trends, and anticipate what investors and others will be asking about.
As investors demand more details of sustainability efforts and companies are expected to understand and talk about climate change-related risks they face, CFOs need to have solid knowledge of all aspects of their companies' sustainability programs, Ernst & Young say in a report on the changing role of CFOs.
Not only should CFOs know what their companies are up to, but they also need to understand broader sustainability issues and trends, and anticipate what investors and others will be asking about.
Department of Energy Joins with Manufacturers, Environmentalists to Announce New Efficiency Standards for Home Refrigerators
The Department of Energy issued final energy efficiency standards for home refrigerators and freezers that will improve their efficiency by about 25% by 2014. These new standards, developed through a consensus process with manufacturers, consumer groups, and environmentalists, are expected to deliver more than $200 in electricity bill savings for the typical consumer over the lifetime of the refrigerator. Nationally, consumers are expected to save more than $21 billion on their energy bills through 2043 as a result of the standards announced today.
"These standards reflect a consensus among manufacturers, consumer groups and environmentalists. The agreement builds on more than three decades of common-sense state and federal refrigerator efficiency standards that have collectively saved American families hundreds of billions of dollars," said Secretary Chu. "What's so remarkable is that even as the size of American refrigerators has increased and more features have been added, the historical purchase prices have come down and we are all saving money on our electricity bills every month."
"DOE's action today, which was required by law, is based on the consensus agreement reached by stakeholders which balances energy savings, consumer choice, and manufacturer impact. We applaud DOE for its work and continue to urge both DOE and EPA to carefully balance implementation of mandatory standards and voluntary programs such as ENERGY STAR," said Joseph M. McGuire, president of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
"This final rule implements a consensus agreement between appliance manufacturers and energy efficiency supporters on new refrigerator and freezer standards," said Steven Nadel, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. "This consensus agreement maximized cost-effective energy savings for consumers while keeping impacts on manufacturers to manageable levels. We commend the Department for issuing this rule now and for following the consensus agreement."
These new consensus standards build on previous efficiency standards for refrigerators, which have successfully reduced energy use while promoting design innovation and new features for homeowners. Since the first standards were set in the 1970s, the energy needed to power home refrigerators has decreased by more than two-thirds, while at the same time, costs have come down, storage space has increased, and more features are available than ever before.
The efficiency standards issued today finalize the proposed consensus standards agreed to by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), more than 25 individual refrigerator manufacturers, and some of the nation's leading consumer and environmental advocacy groups. The standards will go into effect three years after publication in the Federal Register.
According to the Department's analysis, the standards announced today will ultimately save enough electricity each year to power 3.4 million homes, about the same number of homes in the entire state of Virginia. The standards will also avoid more than 340 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions over 30 years.
These standards are part of a broader Department of Energy effort designed to help families save money by saving energy by increasing the efficiency of residential and commercial appliances and products. Under the Obama Administration, the Department of Energy has finalized new efficiency standards for more than thirty household and commercial products, which are estimated to save consumers a total of $300 billion through 2030.
The standards are available on the Department of Energy website.
To see Secretary Chu discuss the broader benefits of appliance efficiency standards, check out this video on the U.S. Department of Energy website.
"These standards reflect a consensus among manufacturers, consumer groups and environmentalists. The agreement builds on more than three decades of common-sense state and federal refrigerator efficiency standards that have collectively saved American families hundreds of billions of dollars," said Secretary Chu. "What's so remarkable is that even as the size of American refrigerators has increased and more features have been added, the historical purchase prices have come down and we are all saving money on our electricity bills every month."
"DOE's action today, which was required by law, is based on the consensus agreement reached by stakeholders which balances energy savings, consumer choice, and manufacturer impact. We applaud DOE for its work and continue to urge both DOE and EPA to carefully balance implementation of mandatory standards and voluntary programs such as ENERGY STAR," said Joseph M. McGuire, president of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
"This final rule implements a consensus agreement between appliance manufacturers and energy efficiency supporters on new refrigerator and freezer standards," said Steven Nadel, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. "This consensus agreement maximized cost-effective energy savings for consumers while keeping impacts on manufacturers to manageable levels. We commend the Department for issuing this rule now and for following the consensus agreement."
These new consensus standards build on previous efficiency standards for refrigerators, which have successfully reduced energy use while promoting design innovation and new features for homeowners. Since the first standards were set in the 1970s, the energy needed to power home refrigerators has decreased by more than two-thirds, while at the same time, costs have come down, storage space has increased, and more features are available than ever before.
The efficiency standards issued today finalize the proposed consensus standards agreed to by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), more than 25 individual refrigerator manufacturers, and some of the nation's leading consumer and environmental advocacy groups. The standards will go into effect three years after publication in the Federal Register.
According to the Department's analysis, the standards announced today will ultimately save enough electricity each year to power 3.4 million homes, about the same number of homes in the entire state of Virginia. The standards will also avoid more than 340 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions over 30 years.
These standards are part of a broader Department of Energy effort designed to help families save money by saving energy by increasing the efficiency of residential and commercial appliances and products. Under the Obama Administration, the Department of Energy has finalized new efficiency standards for more than thirty household and commercial products, which are estimated to save consumers a total of $300 billion through 2030.
The standards are available on the Department of Energy website.
To see Secretary Chu discuss the broader benefits of appliance efficiency standards, check out this video on the U.S. Department of Energy website.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
From El Nuevo Dia, PR Newspaper
6:40 p.m. - No hay luz en todo Vieques. En el refugio se encuentran en labor de reparación de la planta eléctrica. Los refugiados comienzan a registrarse con la ayuda de linternas.
6:40 p.m. - No Power in all of Vieques. Repairs to the power plant at the shelter are underway. Refugees begin registration with the help of flash lights.
Please stay safe.
6:40 p.m. - No Power in all of Vieques. Repairs to the power plant at the shelter are underway. Refugees begin registration with the help of flash lights.
Please stay safe.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Webinar: OpenStudio—Whole-Building Energy Modeling
This webinar will review the OpenStudio application suite, primarily used by architects, engineers, and others involved in the design, construction, or facility management industries.
Speakers: Nicholas Long and David Goldwasser, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Speakers: Nicholas Long and David Goldwasser, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Friday, August 19, 2011
Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction: Learn How You and Your Clients Can Benefit from this Federal Program
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-58) created a new tax incentive for constructing energy efficient commercial buildings. Specifically, Section 1331, the Commercial Building Tax Deduction, establishes a tax deduction for expenses related to the design and installation of energy-efficient commercial building systems.
The AIA strongly supported this provision and played a major role in its legislative development. AIA also helped form a partnership with other concerned stakeholders and through this partnership, developed implementation recommendations for building owners to obtain this tax deduction. In 2008, the AIA helped pass legislation to extend the life of the deduction so that it covers property placed in service by December 31, 2013.
The AIA strongly supported this provision and played a major role in its legislative development. AIA also helped form a partnership with other concerned stakeholders and through this partnership, developed implementation recommendations for building owners to obtain this tax deduction. In 2008, the AIA helped pass legislation to extend the life of the deduction so that it covers property placed in service by December 31, 2013.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
EDIN USVI Next Workshop Scheduled for September 15-16th - UVI STX
As the efforts to reduce petroleum-based energy consumption in the USVI continue to move forward, the increased involvement of the local citizens, businesses and organizations is increasingly important. We hope you will consider taking time out of your busy schedule to attend the upcoming Workshop. Please, post any topics that you would like to see addressed and we will do our best to include them. The final agenda and issues to be discussed will be posted here and on the Facebook page when received.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
World Green Building Week
World Green Building Week 2011 will be taking place between September 19-23, 2011. How will you be celebrating green building and green communities where you live?
World Green Building Week is celebrated annually to draw attention to the importance of creating healthier, more sustainable buildings and communities. Each year during the third week of September, Green Building Councils and their members mark this occasion with events and activities that reflect the diversity of their cultures and industries.
The number of countries participating in World Green Building Week tripled last year and we expect even more growth this year. The best way to get involved in World Green Building Week this year is to contact your local GBC and find out how your organization can be a part of this remarkable groundswell in support of a greener built environment.
World Green Building Week 2010 Summary Report: Read about the events and activities that took place between September 20-26, 2010, with participation by over 26 countries from around the world.
WorldGBC released a special report, Tackling Global Climate Change - Meeting Local Priorities, on the first day of World Green Building Week 2010. The report demonstrates the important role that green buildings can play in providing social and economic benefits such as affordable housing, job creation and disaster recovery. It also brings together exemplary case studies from around the world and provides evidence of how green buildings have been used effectively to meet local needs.
For more information about World Green Building Week please contact Jason Neudorf.
World Green Building Week is celebrated annually to draw attention to the importance of creating healthier, more sustainable buildings and communities. Each year during the third week of September, Green Building Councils and their members mark this occasion with events and activities that reflect the diversity of their cultures and industries.
The number of countries participating in World Green Building Week tripled last year and we expect even more growth this year. The best way to get involved in World Green Building Week this year is to contact your local GBC and find out how your organization can be a part of this remarkable groundswell in support of a greener built environment.
World Green Building Week 2010 Summary Report: Read about the events and activities that took place between September 20-26, 2010, with participation by over 26 countries from around the world.
WorldGBC released a special report, Tackling Global Climate Change - Meeting Local Priorities, on the first day of World Green Building Week 2010. The report demonstrates the important role that green buildings can play in providing social and economic benefits such as affordable housing, job creation and disaster recovery. It also brings together exemplary case studies from around the world and provides evidence of how green buildings have been used effectively to meet local needs.
For more information about World Green Building Week please contact Jason Neudorf.
America's Home Energy Challenge
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy and administered by the National Science Teachers Association, the America's Home Energy Education Challenge aims to enhance and extend existing energy-focused programs, provide specific home energy-saving tips, and make materials that support the learning of science and energy available to schools. Participating schools compete for more than $200,000 in prizes distributed at the regional and national levels of the competition.
The America's Home Energy Education Challenge is designed to:
•educate students across the United States in grades 3-8 about energy and the benefits of energy efficiency
•teach students to recognize that lowering their home energy use saves money and
•engage students and their families in a save energy, save money initiative.
PARTICIPATION
Teachers, students and families can participate in two ways:
•Home Energy Challenge
◦Energy Savings Plan and Data Collection
◦Energy Savings Plan and Poster Contest
•Energy Fitness Award
◦Individual Student and Class Group Activities
For enrollment, registration assistance, or for questions regarding America's Home Energy Education Challenge, contact the AHEEC help desk: 1-888-Joules1 [1-888-568-5371]
The America's Home Energy Education Challenge is designed to:
•educate students across the United States in grades 3-8 about energy and the benefits of energy efficiency
•teach students to recognize that lowering their home energy use saves money and
•engage students and their families in a save energy, save money initiative.
PARTICIPATION
Teachers, students and families can participate in two ways:
•Home Energy Challenge
◦Energy Savings Plan and Data Collection
◦Energy Savings Plan and Poster Contest
•Energy Fitness Award
◦Individual Student and Class Group Activities
For enrollment, registration assistance, or for questions regarding America's Home Energy Education Challenge, contact the AHEEC help desk: 1-888-Joules1 [1-888-568-5371]
Monday, August 15, 2011
Bogota's Amazing Bikeways! (Video)
A Model for the World
This video by our friends at Streetfilms is not only great because it shows us a powerful example of bike infrastructure improving a city, but also because it shows how you can change the perception of riding a bike among citizens by treating bikes as an equally important way to get around and building safe lanes in both poor and rich neighborhoods. "When we build very high quality bicycle infrastructure, besides protecting cyclists, it shows that a citizen on a $30 bicycle is equally as important to one in a $30,000 car," said former mayor Enrique Peñalosa. Via Streetfilms.
This video by our friends at Streetfilms is not only great because it shows us a powerful example of bike infrastructure improving a city, but also because it shows how you can change the perception of riding a bike among citizens by treating bikes as an equally important way to get around and building safe lanes in both poor and rich neighborhoods. "When we build very high quality bicycle infrastructure, besides protecting cyclists, it shows that a citizen on a $30 bicycle is equally as important to one in a $30,000 car," said former mayor Enrique Peñalosa. Via Streetfilms.
Dow Solar Design to Zero Competition
As a worldwide-leading chemical company focused on innovation and sustainable solutions to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, Dow proudly sponsors the international Dow Solar Design to Zero Competition. The competition presents a global opportunity to underscore and showcase Dow’s focused commitment and vision to help solve the world’s most pressing challenges, as articulated in the company’s 2015 Sustainability Goals. The Design to Zero Competition is an opportunity to engage universities, the media and employees while demonstrating Dow’s commitment to sustainability and role in reducing their environmental footprint while delivering solutions that help the rest of society do the same.
Contestants are asked to develop and propose innovations necessary to achieve affordable, high performing and energy-efficient housing solutions on a global scale. The competition is open to all undergraduate or graduate students worldwide studying design, interior design, sustainable design and all other relevant subjects. The competition is envisioned as a global brainstorming exercise in which competitors cooperate in an ongoing dialogue and assessment of ideas.
There will be a generous first, second and third prize ($20,000, $10,000, and $5,000, respectively) as well as three Honorable Mentions awarded at a 2012 ceremony.
Contestants are asked to develop and propose innovations necessary to achieve affordable, high performing and energy-efficient housing solutions on a global scale. The competition is open to all undergraduate or graduate students worldwide studying design, interior design, sustainable design and all other relevant subjects. The competition is envisioned as a global brainstorming exercise in which competitors cooperate in an ongoing dialogue and assessment of ideas.
There will be a generous first, second and third prize ($20,000, $10,000, and $5,000, respectively) as well as three Honorable Mentions awarded at a 2012 ceremony.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Before you dismiss geothermal, consider going hybrid
Before you dismiss geothermal, consider going hybrid
New study identifies cost effectiveness of hybrid ground-source heat pumps
Install a hybrid geothermal heat pump system and reduce the cost of implementing geothermal heating and cooling on your building project. A hybrid system reduces the peak capacity of your ground loop, letting you install a smaller, less expensive ground heat exchanger.
The Energy Center of Wisconsin with assistance from the University of Wisconsin Solar Energy Laboratory collected a year of operating data on three working hybrid system installations to analyze the economic and environmental impact of the hybrid approach and to compare it to other HVAC system designs. This data was used to investigate what contributes to an effective hybrid design and to validate energy models of these systems.
The study was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Alliant Energy, and Madison Gas and Electric. As a result of this project the Energy Center developed documents and tools for HVAC system designers to use, including a freeware version of their model, to assess the benefits of applying the geothermal hybrid approach on building projects. Download the final report at www.ecw.org/hybrid.
Free software models hybrid geothermal systems
An easy-to-use, but sophisticated method of analyzing various hybrid geothermal configurations is one piece that has been missing from the world of geothermal analysis tools. This new tool fills a gap for engineers and designers by modeling hybrid systems that can lower the up-front costs of geothermal. Learn more and download tool: http://www.ecw.org/project.php?workid=1&resultid=465
FACT SHEET
Hybrid ground-source heat pumps: saving energy and cost
http://www.ecw.org/ecwresults/HyGSHPfactsheet.pdf
FINAL REPORT
Hybrid ground-source heat pump installations: experiences, improvements and tools
http://www.ecw.org/ecwresults/262-1.pdf
FREE WEBINAR
Hybrid geothermal systems: less is more
Presented by Scott Hackel, P.E., LEED AP, Senior Project Manager, Energy Center of Wisconsin
September 29, 2011
www.ecw.org/hybrid
Energy Center University
Learn the latest strategies to design, build and maintain high performance energy efficient buildings.
www.ecw.org/university/
New study identifies cost effectiveness of hybrid ground-source heat pumps
Install a hybrid geothermal heat pump system and reduce the cost of implementing geothermal heating and cooling on your building project. A hybrid system reduces the peak capacity of your ground loop, letting you install a smaller, less expensive ground heat exchanger.
The Energy Center of Wisconsin with assistance from the University of Wisconsin Solar Energy Laboratory collected a year of operating data on three working hybrid system installations to analyze the economic and environmental impact of the hybrid approach and to compare it to other HVAC system designs. This data was used to investigate what contributes to an effective hybrid design and to validate energy models of these systems.
The study was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Alliant Energy, and Madison Gas and Electric. As a result of this project the Energy Center developed documents and tools for HVAC system designers to use, including a freeware version of their model, to assess the benefits of applying the geothermal hybrid approach on building projects. Download the final report at www.ecw.org/hybrid.
Free software models hybrid geothermal systems
An easy-to-use, but sophisticated method of analyzing various hybrid geothermal configurations is one piece that has been missing from the world of geothermal analysis tools. This new tool fills a gap for engineers and designers by modeling hybrid systems that can lower the up-front costs of geothermal. Learn more and download tool: http://www.ecw.org/project.php?workid=1&resultid=465
FACT SHEET
Hybrid ground-source heat pumps: saving energy and cost
http://www.ecw.org/ecwresults/HyGSHPfactsheet.pdf
FINAL REPORT
Hybrid ground-source heat pump installations: experiences, improvements and tools
http://www.ecw.org/ecwresults/262-1.pdf
FREE WEBINAR
Hybrid geothermal systems: less is more
Presented by Scott Hackel, P.E., LEED AP, Senior Project Manager, Energy Center of Wisconsin
September 29, 2011
www.ecw.org/hybrid
Energy Center University
Learn the latest strategies to design, build and maintain high performance energy efficient buildings.
www.ecw.org/university/
Energy Disclosure Laws - A Nationwide Trend in Transparency
With more information we make better decisions, right? Well, that’s the idea behind energy disclosure requirements. States and municipalities are increasingly adopting energy disclosure laws, requiring commercial building owners to report the energy efficiency of their buildings annually and pre-transaction. Some laws also require energy audits, retrocommissioning and/or retrofits. Energy disclosure laws vary from public disclosure (New York City) to private disclosure (California).
I recently had the opportunity to attend the Urban Land Institute’s Policy and Practice Forum in at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago: The New Transparency in Real Estate – Sustainability Metrics, Asset Performance, and Public Disclosure. There I had a chance to hear from a number of leading experts in the fields of sustainability and energy efficiency, as well as tour a number of leading sustainability buildings in Chicago, including the Merchandise Mart owned by Vornado Realty Trust and 300 North LaSalle Street owned by Hines – both amazing buildings leading the sustainability forefront.
Energy efficiency and disclosure – who’s on board?
What stood out to me at the ULI forum was the enthusiasm for and support of energy efficiency and disclosure laws by both city leaders and major real estate investment groups.
At the forum were city leaders such as Jayson Antonoff, City of Seattle, Barry Hooper, City and County of San Francisco, and Laurie Kerr, City of New York. They spoke of the successes of their disclosure laws and the positive effects on their cities, from increasing the grade of current building stock, decreasing carbon emissions, increasing value and net operating income of commercial buildings, to job creation from the green implementations.
It was great to see the participation and even leadership from some of the largest real investment groups in the United States. Chuck Leitner, Chairman of RREEF, now also is the Chief Executive Officer of Greenprint Foundation. Greenprint Foundation is a worldwide alliance of real estate owners, investors, financial institutions and other industry stakeholders committed to reducing carbon emissions across the global property industry. Members include Beacon Capital Partners, Douglas Emmett, GLL Real Estate Partners, Jones Lang LaSalle, McArthur Glen Group, Paramount Group, PATRIZIA Immobilien, Deutsche Bank, Aetos Capital, AvalonBay, The Blackstone Group, Equity Office Properties, Henderson Global Investors, Hines, Prudential Real Estate Investors, Sonae Sierrra, DEXUS Property Group, TIAA-CREF, and others. With this group of real estate giants on board, it makes it easier to get smaller mom and pop shops to see the value in energy efficiency and disclosure laws.
What are the benefits of energy disclosure?
If a building purchaser considers two comparable buildings and discovers that they have drastically different energy efficiency ratings, his or her purchasing decision will be influenced. Perhaps they are drawn to the more efficient, more attractive green building. Or, a savvy investor might use the information to negotiate a reduced price to the inefficient building and invest in upgrades. Investing in energy efficient measures or “EEMs”, even relatively simple lighting upgrades, can offer significant returns.
With greater transparency the market rewards efficient buildings – studies have shown green buildings command higher rent premiums and sale prices, have improved marketability, and increase tenant satisfaction and retention. Additionally, many pension funds and other investment arms are requiring that their investment advisors have a “green real estate portfolio”, or at a minimum a “greening plan.”
Where is energy disclosure required?
Energy disclosure laws exist now in California, San Francisco, Washington state, Seattle, Austin, Washington, DC and New York City. Many other state and local governments are in the process of introducing bills related to energy performance reporting, including: Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Oregon, Portland, Tennessee and Vermont. Over a dozen other states have appointed Energy Task Forces that are analyzing their states’ needs and are considering legislature in the next couple of years.
While this trend might be seen as adding more bureaucracy and red tape, one could look at an energy rating as a valuable piece of information and an opportunity.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Cutting Energy Costs Could Transform Territory
The Virgin Islands' efforts to free itself from dependence on fossil fuels will mean big changes in the lives of islanders, Energy Office Director Karl Knight said Saturday.
"Life will never be the same in the Virgin Islands," Knight told an audience of about 40 people attending a conference sponsored by AARP and the League of Women Voters.
The conference, "EDIN and LEAC for Residential Consumers," was designed to explain the factors that lead to high energy costs in the territory. It is the first of what conference officials said will be a series of meetings on issues of importance to the territory.
Because LEAC – the much-discussed Levelized Energy Adjustment Clause – is directly tied to the cost of fossil fuel used to generate electricity, the only way to lower it is to lower the use of those fossil fuels. A year ago, Gov. John de Jongh Jr. set a goal of reducing the territory's use of fossil fuels 60 percent by the year 2025.
That seems like a huge undertaking, and Knight did not downplay the challenge. But the territory has a plan for achieving that ambitious goal, he said, and is already on its way.
"Life will never be the same in the Virgin Islands," Knight told an audience of about 40 people attending a conference sponsored by AARP and the League of Women Voters.
The conference, "EDIN and LEAC for Residential Consumers," was designed to explain the factors that lead to high energy costs in the territory. It is the first of what conference officials said will be a series of meetings on issues of importance to the territory.
Because LEAC – the much-discussed Levelized Energy Adjustment Clause – is directly tied to the cost of fossil fuel used to generate electricity, the only way to lower it is to lower the use of those fossil fuels. A year ago, Gov. John de Jongh Jr. set a goal of reducing the territory's use of fossil fuels 60 percent by the year 2025.
That seems like a huge undertaking, and Knight did not downplay the challenge. But the territory has a plan for achieving that ambitious goal, he said, and is already on its way.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Green Homes Sell for More, Studies Show
As green building pros know all too well, today’s recession-weary home buyers are often more concerned with price than with a home’s energy rating, durability, or indoor air quality. New research, however, reflects a steady increase in the public’s understanding of the value of green building features.
In fact, one analysis in the Portland, Ore., metropolitan area found that green-certified dwellings sold for up to 30% more on average. The study from Portland-based nonprofit Earth Advantage Institute, which analyzed sales data for May 2010 through April 2011 from the Portland Regional MLS, found that green-certified new homes, on average, sold for 8% more than non-certified ones. In one of the six counties reporting figures, the premium was more than 23%. Certifications came from Energy Star, LEED for Homes, Earth Advantage, or an Earth Advantage/Energy Star combination.
In fact, one analysis in the Portland, Ore., metropolitan area found that green-certified dwellings sold for up to 30% more on average. The study from Portland-based nonprofit Earth Advantage Institute, which analyzed sales data for May 2010 through April 2011 from the Portland Regional MLS, found that green-certified new homes, on average, sold for 8% more than non-certified ones. In one of the six counties reporting figures, the premium was more than 23%. Certifications came from Energy Star, LEED for Homes, Earth Advantage, or an Earth Advantage/Energy Star combination.
VIEO and WAPA Speak on Energy at LWV Luncheon
Anyone concerned about high energy cost and who wants an opportunity to give input to the V.I. Government’s Renewable Energy Working Group for Energy Development in Island Nations (EDIN) are invited to attend. Learn how EDIN is supposed to reduce the LEAC by year 2025? Register today to attend a luncheon sponsored jointly by the League of Women Voters-Virgin Islands and AARP Virgin Islands starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 6, at the V.I. Cardiac Center on St. Croix.
Karl Knight, director of the V.I. Energy Office, will speak about “The Goals of EDIN,“ and Hugo Hodge, executive director of WAPA, will speak about: “EDIN and LEAC: What You, As a Residential Consumer Need to Know.” This is an opportunity to learn what is being done for energy development in the territory, along with how people can reduce energy costs. Registration is $20, which includes lunch and copies of all materials. Register now by calling AARP Virgin Islands at 713-2002 (or register at the AARP Office in Sunny Isle Annex) before Wednesday, Aug. 3. The first 20 registrants will receive an energy-saving prize.
Karl Knight, director of the V.I. Energy Office, will speak about “The Goals of EDIN,“ and Hugo Hodge, executive director of WAPA, will speak about: “EDIN and LEAC: What You, As a Residential Consumer Need to Know.” This is an opportunity to learn what is being done for energy development in the territory, along with how people can reduce energy costs. Registration is $20, which includes lunch and copies of all materials. Register now by calling AARP Virgin Islands at 713-2002 (or register at the AARP Office in Sunny Isle Annex) before Wednesday, Aug. 3. The first 20 registrants will receive an energy-saving prize.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Caribbean Power Grid Is Feasible, Study Finds
Connecting St. Thomas, St. Croix and the British Virgin Islands to Puerto Rico's electrical grid with submarine cables is technically possible and economically feasible, according to a just-released study performed by the energy technology firm Siemens.
"The biggest takeaway is the connection is feasible," V.I. Water and Power Authority Executive Hugo Hodge Jr. said Monday evening. The study also found that the grid would lower bills, improve reliability and cut down on pollution."
"The biggest takeaway is the connection is feasible," V.I. Water and Power Authority Executive Hugo Hodge Jr. said Monday evening. The study also found that the grid would lower bills, improve reliability and cut down on pollution."
Monday, August 1, 2011
LEED Rating System Development
On Monday, August 1, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) opened the second public comment period for the proposed update to its LEED green building rating system, coined LEED 2012. The comment period, which will close on September 14, 2011, is the next step in the continuous improvement process and on-going development of the LEED program.
The drafts currently available for public comment feature updated language and scorecards, and include responses to comments with points associated with all credits. Members of the public can comment on any changes made since the first comment period, which ran from Nov. 8, 2010 until Jan. 19, 2011.
The drafts currently available for public comment feature updated language and scorecards, and include responses to comments with points associated with all credits. Members of the public can comment on any changes made since the first comment period, which ran from Nov. 8, 2010 until Jan. 19, 2011.
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