Build a New Facility
Using energy-efficient design and technologies can mean big savings
New commercial construction can cut energy costs by as much as 50% by using energy-efficient design and technologies. Energy-smart buildings incorporate efficient lighting and day-lighting systems, plus advanced windows, roofing, insulation, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Key Resources
- Title 24 and other builder resources from the California Energy Commission website
- Building Design Checklist (PDF, 8K)
- Energy Design Resources for Builders website
- Measurement and verification best practices (PDF, 648K)
- Making the Business Case for Energy Efficiency (PDF, 12K)
- Purchasing and procurement info from ENERGY STAR
New buildings in California must comply with Title 24, the State's Energy Efficiency Building Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings. These requirements have saved more than $20 billion in electricity and natural gas costs since 1978. It is estimated that the standards, amended in 2001, will save $57 billion by 2011.
But while Title 24 will certainly save energy, the potential savings are far greater. For example, the State's new East End office complex in Sacramento is 30% more energy efficient than the recently revised Title 24 standards, saving the state an estimated $429,000 every year.
Step 1: Investigate your obligations and options
Start with California's Energy Efficiency Building Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings (Title 24).
Questions about Title 24?
E-mail: title24@energy.state.ca.us
Phone: (800) 772-3300
To obtain a hard copy of Title 24, call the California Energy Commission's (CEC) publications office at (916) 654-5200.
Step 2: Run a cost/benefit analysis of your project to exceed Title 24 standards
Determine which options offer the best savings potential by performing a cost-benefit analysis, making sure to include both direct and indirect benefits. ENERGY STAR makes it easier by offering facility executives the ENERGY STAR online financial value calculator. Assess the measurable rate of return and present a compelling business case for your energy efficiency investments.
Here is a list of specific energy-saving features you can incorporate into a new facility, plus detailed estimates of investment costs, annual energy savings, energy cost reductions and payback periods.
The cost effectiveness of these measures can be greatly enhanced by available rebates that reduce the payback period for your facility!
Step 3: Find the information and products you need to start saving now
Flex Your Power has tools and resources to help your business save energy and money today:
Step 4: Measure your results.
Measurement and verification (M&V) programs validate and improve predictions of system efficiencies and energy use and cost, in addition to providing management and investors the information they need.
Helpful information on M&V protocols: