The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) was recently awarded LEED EB (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Existing Building) Platinum status for their Customer Service Center, making SMUD the first utility in the nation to achieve this honor. SMUD uses their Energy and Technology Center to provide educational programs and workshops on energy efficiency for commercial and residential customers, small businesses, the building industry, vendors, students and other groups. The center includes a lighting classroom and examples of energy efficient technologies. Efficiency attributes include high-efficiency chillers, air conditioning systems and fluorescent fixtures with dimmers. SMUD's Customer Service Center has achieved annual savings of 200,000 kWh and $20,400. As part of the LEED certification process, SMUD conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the building's operating and maintenance systems, finding 32 ways to further reduce energy use and embrace more sustainable maintenance practices to create a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment.
Jim Parks, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, accepts award for Education and Leadership