In The News

Energy Star Helps Auto Plants Improve Energy Efficiency

 

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program has helped improve the energy efficiency of the auto manufacturing industry, which has cut fossil fuel use by 12 percent and reduced greenhouse gases by more than 700,000 tons of carbon dioxide, according to a recent report by the Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions at Duke University.  The emissions reductions, which help to fight climate change, equal the emissions from the electricity use of more than 80,000 homes for a year.

The report, Assessing Improvement in the Energy Efficiency of U.S. Auto Assembly Plants, affirms EPA’s energy management strategy, particularly the importance of performance measurement and recognition for top performance.  The report also demonstrates that the gap between top performing plants and others has closed and the performance of the industry as a whole has improved. 

Central to this energy management approach is the Energy Star Energy Performance Indicator (EPI) for auto assembly plants, which enables industry to benchmark plant energy performance against peers and over time.  Energy Star EPIs exist or are under development for more than 20 other industries.  Across these industries, EPA has recognized nearly 60 manufacturing plants with the Energy Star label, representing savings of more than $500 million and more than 6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent annually.

The U.S. industrial sector accounts for more than 30 percent of energy use in the United States. If the energy efficiency of industrial facilities improved by 10 percent, EPA estimates that Americans would save nearly $20 billion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions equal to the emissions from the electricity use of more than 22 million homes for a year.  Hundreds of industrial companies across more than a dozen manufacturing industries are working with EPA’s Energy Star program to develop strong energy management programs, earn the Energy Star for their plants and achieve breakthrough improvements in energy efficiency.

Read the report: http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/institute/Duke_EE_WP_10-01.pdf

More information about Energy Star’s work with the auto manufacturing industry: http://www.energystar.gov/industry

U.S. EPA, DOE Announce Changes to Bolster Energy Star Program

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy today jointly announced changes to the Energy Star product certification process to ensure that only products meeting the program requirements can receive an Energy Star label. These changes accelerate steps DOE and EPA have initiated over the past several months to bolster the verification, testing and enforcement aspects of the Energy Star program.
 
“The Energy Star program started out small and has grown quickly, and now the brand is immensely valuable to consumers and businesses,” said Gina McCarthy, EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation. “The safeguards we’re putting into effect are essential for the millions of consumers who rely on Energy Star products to help save energy, money and the environment.”
 
“Consumers trust the Energy Star brand to save them money and reduce carbon pollution,” said Cathy Zoi, DOE Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “The steps we are taking to strengthen the program will ensure that Energy Star continues to be the hallmark for energy efficiency in the years to come.”
 
Effective immediately, manufacturers wishing to qualify their products as Energy Star must submit complete lab reports and results for review and approval by EPA prior to labeling. Following a thorough review of the Energy Star qualification approval process, EPA has strengthened its approval systems and is no longer relying on an automated approval process.  All new qualification applications will be reviewed and approved individually by EPA.  EPA will begin accepting new applications by the end of the week.

Additionally, companies applying to be program partners will not be able to access the Energy Star certification mark until EPA has approved a specific Energy Star-qualified product submitted by the company.
 
EPA and DOE are further strengthening the certification process with a requirement effective at the end of the year that all manufacturers must submit test results from an approved, accredited lab for any product seeking the Energy Star label.  Testing in an accredited lab is currently required for certain product categories including windows, doors, skylights and compact fluorescent lighting. The new process will extend the requirement to each of the more than 60 eligible product categories under the Energy Star program.
 
These efforts are in addition to enforcement and testing procedures already in place to ensure compliance with Energy Star specifications.  The Department of Energy is conducting off-the-shelf product testing for some of the most common household appliances and a recent Inspector General audit found that 98 percent of products tested fully complied with Energy Star requirements.
 
The EPA and DOE are committed to continually strengthening and improving the Energy Star program, which provides information to consumers to help identify the most energy efficient products on the market that will save them money and reduce carbon pollution.

The Energy Star program outlined these steps in detail for EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson and DOE Secretary Steven Chu in an April 2 memo. More information: http://www.energystar.gov

Des Moines-West Des Moines Metro Area in Top 25 U.S. Cities with the Most Energy Efficient Buildings

   

(Kansas City-EPA) - The Des Moines-West Des Moines, Iowa, metropolitan area is tied for 24th on a list of U.S. metropolitan areas with the largest number of energy efficient buildings that earned EPA’s Energy Star in 2009. The Des Moines-West Des Moines metropolitan area has 36 Energy Star labeled buildings. Energy efficiency saves building owners money and fights climate change.

 

"These cities see the importance of taking action on climate change," said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “Communities from Los Angeles to Louisville are reducing greenhouse gases and cutting energy bills with buildings that have earned EPA's Energy Star."

EPA first issued its ranking of cities with the most Energy Star labeled buildings last year. This year, Los Angeles remains in first place; the District of Columbia picks up second; Denver and Chicago move into the top five; and Lakeland and New York City are new to the top 10.

 

Continuing the impressive growth of the past several years, in 2009 nearly 3,900 commercial buildings earned the Energy Star, representing annual savings of more than $900 million in utility bills and more than 4.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

 

Since EPA awarded the first Energy Star to a building in 1999, nearly 9,000 buildings across America have earned the Energy Star as of the end of 2009, representing more than a 40 percent increase over last year’s total. Overall annual utility savings have climbed to nearly $1.6 billion and greenhouse gas emissions equal to the emissions of more than 1 million homes a year have been prevented.

Energy use in commercial buildings accounts for 17 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions at a cost of over $100 billion per year. EPA awards the Energy Star to commercial buildings that perform in the top 25 percent of buildings nationwide compared to similar buildings. Thirteen types of buildings can earn the Energy Star, including schools, hospitals, office buildings, retail stores and supermarkets.

 

View a list of the Top 25 Cities in 2009 with Energy Star labeled buildings: http://www.energystar.gov/ia/business/downloads/2009_Top_25_cities_chart.pdf

 

Access EPA’s real-time registry of all Energy Star labeled buildings 1999-present: http://energystar.gov/buildinglist

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSEERVATION BLOCK GRANT AWARDS $5.8 MILLION FOR ENERGY PROJECTS

DES MOINES – The Iowa Office of Energy Independence (OEI) has awarded 78 statewide grants totaling $5,840,862 under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) and American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) program.

The awards are for projects from cities and counties across the state that will reduce energy use, have a positive impact on budgets and enhance the economic development through job creation.

The purpose of the Iowa EECBG program is to provide funding, via a competitive grant process, to assist local governments in creating and implementing strategies to:

·         Reduce fossil fuel emissions in a manner that is environmentally sustainable and, to the maximum extent practicable and maximize benefits for local and regional communities

·         Reduce total energy use of the eligible entities

·         Improve energy efficiency in the building, transportation and other appropriate sectors

·         Create and retain jobs

 Up to $8,634,400 of ARRA-EECBG funding is available for grants under this program and project awards were distributed among six categories.

1. Energy efficiency retrofits on facilities for nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies.
2. Development and implementation of energy efficiency and conservation programs for buildings and facilities within the jurisdiction of an entity.
3. Development and implementation of programs to conserve energy used in transportation.
4. Development and implementation of building codes and inspection services, compliance, training and enforcement associated with such codes in order to promote building energy efficiency;
5. Replacement of traffic signals and street lighting with energy efficient technologies; and
6. Development, implementation, and installation on or in any government building of onsite renewable energy technology that generates electricity from renewable resources.

 

Iowa’s thirteen largest cities – Ames, Ankeny, Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport, Des Moines, Dubuque, Iowa City, Sioux City, Urbandale, Waterloo, and West Des Moines – and ten largest counties – Cerro Gordo, Clinton, Dallas, Des Moines, Johnson, Linn, Muscatine, Polk, Scott, and Warren – that have already received direct formula allocations from the U.S. Department of Energy were eligible to compete for approximately $2.9 million in funding. These awards will be announced by the OEI soon.

To review the list of awards, please visit: www.energy.iowa.gov.

EPA, DOE Announce New Steps to Strengthen Energy Star

 

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today outlined a series of steps to further strengthen the trusted Energy Star program. This action comes at a critical time for American consumers, many of whom struggle to keep up with their monthly energy bills. In addition to third-party testing already underway, EPA and DOE have launched a new two-step process to expand testing of Energy Star qualified products. This week, DOE began testing of some of the most commonly used appliances, which account for more than 25 percent of a household’s energy bill, and both agencies are now developing a system to test all products that earn the Energy Star label. The steps are part of an overall effort by the Obama Administration to improve the energy efficiency of homes and appliances to save families money. 

 

“Energy efficiency is more important than ever to American families,” said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “As our economy gets back on its feet, Energy Star is an easy way for consumers to save money and help fight climate change.”

 

“Consumers have long trusted the Energy Star brand for products that will save them energy and save them money,” said Cathy Zoi, DOE Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.  “The steps we’re taking now will further strengthen and improve the program, building on the results that consumers have come to expect.”

 

Consumers can feel confident in Energy Star because in 2009 alone, Americans, with the help of Energy Star, saved enough energy to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 30 million cars — all while saving nearly $17 billion on their utility bills.

 

Taking Action: The Obama Administration Strengthens Testing and Enforcement

 

EPA and DOE are taking aggressive action to promote confidence in the Energy Star brand through both testing and enforcement. 

 

Testing. EPA and DOE have launched a two-step process to expand testing of Energy Star qualified products:

 

·         DOE began tests this week on six of the most common product types: freezers, refrigerator-freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers, water heaters and room air conditioners. DOE will test approximately 200 basic models at third-party, independent test laboratories over the next few months. 

·         EPA and DOE are also developing an expanded system that will require all products seeking the Energy Star label to be tested in approved labs and require manufacturers to participate in an ongoing verification testing program that will ensure continued compliance.

 

   

Why Consumers Can Remain Confident in the Energy Star Brand

 

The Energy Star program already has a comprehensive system in place to ensure consumer confidence that products carrying the Energy Star label actually save energy and save them money.  Specifically:

 

• To receive an Energy Star label, manufacturers must submit data to the federal government showing that their product meets a set of clear, measurable energy efficiency program requirements outlined on http://www.energystar.gov

 

·         DOE and EPA conduct “off the shelf” and third-party testing of a wide range of products bearing the Energy Star label.  For example:

 

o        All Energy Star qualified windows, doors, and skylights must be independently tested by the National Fenestration Rating Council, an independent nonprofit organization with rigorous testing procedures monitored and supported by DOE.

 

o        EPA regularly conducts “off the shelf” testing to verify Energy Star compliance.  For example, in 2009 EPA tested 20 TV models and 16 imaging products and found 100 percent compliance with the Energy Star label. 

 

o        Residential Light Fixtures, compact fluorescent lights and Solid State Lighting systems (also known as LEDs) are all tested by accredited, third-party laboratories.

 

·         Market driven competition also provides a valuable insurance policy on the Energy Star brand.  Manufacturers know that the Energy Star label is very attractive to consumers, and often test a competing product to ensure it complies with the requirements.  Suspected violations can be reported to the EPA or DOE for follow-up. 

 

·         When a violation is found, the right to use the Energy Star label is revoked, corrective measures are required and the Energy Star partnership may be terminated.  For example, in 2008 under DOE pressure, LG Electronics agreed to pay back consumers for promised energy savings and provide free, in-home upgrades to improve several models of refrigerators.  These cases also produce substantial unfavorable publicity for manufacturers which can be very costly and create a major disincentive for companies to violate the program requirements.

 

Independent Review Finds 98 percent Compliance

 

Violations of the Energy Star label tend to get big media attention, which is good, because it provides a strong disincentive for companies to skirt the system and risk a wave of negative coverage about their product.  At the same time, consumers should be aware that in the past few years the number of violations has been quite small, especially given that more than 40,000 individual products carry the Energy Star label.

 

In 2009, EPA’s independent Inspector General conducted a “spot check” of the program, testing 60 Energy Star products.  Fifty-nine percent of the 60 products met or exceeded the Energy Star requirements.  One product, a specific model of printer, failed on one of three tests (not entering “sleep mode” fast enough).

More information on Energy Star: http://www.energystar.gov

EPA Recognizes Leaders in Energy Efficiency

 

Winners save energy and money through Energy Star program

 

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is honoring a select group of manufacturers, retailers, public schools, hospitals, real estate companies, home builders and other organizations as 2010 Energy Star award winners. These organizations are being recognized for their long-term commitment to fighting climate change through greater energy efficiency.  Sears Holdings Corporation, PepsiCo, JC Penney, Food Lion, Whirlpool and Ford Motor Company are among the 110 award winners chosen from more than 17,000 partners in the Energy Star program.

 

“EPA congratulates this year's Energy Star award winners,” said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “Their commitment to energy efficiency makes these organizations valuable partners in the efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change."

 

Organizations are recognized in one of three major award categories: Sustained Excellence, Partner of the Year, and Excellence.  The 50 Sustained Excellence winners have continued to exhibit exceptional leadership year after year in the Energy Star program while remaining dedicated to environmental protection through superior energy efficiency.  Forty organizations are receiving Partner of the Year for strategically and comprehensively managing their energy use. These organizations promote Energy Star products and practices in their own operations, in addition to providing efficient products and services to consumers and within their community.  Twenty organizations are recognized with an Excellence award for a specific activity to promote energy-efficient products, homes or buildings thereby helping to expand the reach of the Energy Star program.

 

American consumers and businesses have been saving energy and protecting the environment for more than two decades by partnering with EPA’s Energy Star program. In 2009 alone, Americans, with the help of Energy Star, saved nearly $17 billion on their energy bills and prevented greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of 30 million vehicles. To date, 1 million new homes and nearly 9,000 office buildings, schools, hospitals and public buildings have earned the Energy Star. Since 2000, 3 billion Energy Star certified products have been sold.

 

A complete list of the winners: http://www.energystar.gov/awards

STATE ENERGY EFFICIENCY APPLIANCE REBATE PROGRAM

DES MOINES - The Office of Energy Independence (OEI) will launch the State of Iowa Energy Efficiency Appliance Rebate Program on March 1, 2010. At that time, Iowa residents will be able to take full advantage of the program to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs by purchasing approved energy rated appliances. 

“We anticipate that each Iowan who participates in this program will be able to save hundreds of dollars over the life of their new and more efficient, appliance,” said Roya Stanley, Director of the Iowa Office of Energy Independence. “Buying and using energy efficient appliances helps consumers save money while at the same time they are creating jobs and boosting the economy.”

The Office of Energy Independence will host an optional retailer’s informational training webinar on Friday, February 5th, 2010. Retailers are strongly encouraged to register as soon as possible by visiting: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/429282338.

The highly anticipated program is open to Iowa residential consumers only and rebate dollars are available on a first come first served basis. Rebates will only be eligible from the approved appliance list and purchases must be made on or after March 1, 2010.

 We urge consumers and retailers to review the list of approved appliances eligible for rebates and the frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) concerning the rebate program by visiting the Iowa Office of Energy Independence website at: http://www.energy.iowa.gov/

 

For more information please contact Program Planner: Linda King | Iowa Office of Energy Independence | 515-725-0082

EPA’s Energy Star Leaders Quadruple Energy Savings In One Year

 

WASHINGTON - In 2009, EPA’s Energy Star Leaders prevented the equivalent of more than 220,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide and saved more than $48 million across their commercial building portfolios. These savings have quadrupled since 2008 and represent the single greatest year of savings since EPA recognized the first Energy Star Leaders in 2004. Over the past five years, Energy Star Leaders are saving money and helping our environment by preventing greenhouse gas emissions equal to the emissions from the electricity use of nearly 39,000 homes annually.

 

Energy Star Leaders must meet one of two energy efficiency improvement milestones. The first milestone requires a 10 percent energy reduction across the entire building portfolio. The second, known as ”top performer,” requires the buildings in an organization’s portfolio, on average, to perform in the top 25 percent of similar buildings nationwide.

 

Fifty-eight organizations are recognized for at least one of these milestones in 2009 - more than double the number that qualified in 2008. More than 75 percent of Energy Star Leaders in 2009 met the top performer milestone, more than in any other year. The list of 2009 Energy Star Leaders is dominated by 54 school districts, many of which are located in the nation’s Midwest region.

 

The complete list of Energy Star Leaders has grown to more than 100 organizations since 2004, including school districts, commercial real estate companies, healthcare systems, supermarket operators and hotel managers. Energy Star Leaders represent more than 5,600 buildings covering nearly 390 million square feet across 32 states and the District of Columbia.

 

List of Energy Star Leaders as of December 31, 2009:

http://www.energystar.gov/ia/business/leaders/2009_Leaders_list.pdf

EPA and DOE Join States to Speed Energy Efficiency Progress in the United States

 

WASHINGTON – As part of the Obama Administration’s commitment to increasing energy efficiency and reducing costs, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced today the creation of the State Energy Efficiency (SEE) Action Network.  This network is meant to help states achieve maximum cost effective energy efficiency improvements in homes, offices, buildings and industry by 2020.  Strengthening energy efficiency initiatives across the country helps to save money and protect the environment at the same time.

 

“In the clean energy future, energy efficiency is action number one.  We can cut greenhouse gases and protect our environment at the same time we save money for homeowners, schools and businesses,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “With strong federal support, our state partners can realize these benefits even faster than expected and move aggressively into a clean, affordable energy future.”

 

“Expanding energy efficiency is one of the quickest, most cost-effective ways we can address climate change and grow America’s economy,” said Energy Secretary Steven Chu.  “The State Energy Efficiency Action Network will help provide states with the technical and policy support they need to invest in energy efficiency, saving energy and money for families and businesses across the country.”

 

The SEE Action Network will be led by DOE and EPA. Through the network, DOE, EPA and other member organizations will assist states with their energy efficiency initiatives, including residential efficiency programs, financing solutions, and improving availability of energy usage information.  It will address the full range of challenges to implementation by providing targeted technical assistance to states in order to reach ambitious national energy goals to greatly improve our nation’s economy and environment.

 

The SEE Action Network will drive energy efficiency by using a broad set of goals developed in the National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency, but will strive to reach these goals five years earlier than originally envisioned.  These goals range from establishing state-of-the art billing systems that provide consumers with consistent information on their energy use and costs to developing strong state policies to ensure robust energy efficiency practices.

 

The new SEE Action Executive Group will meet for the first time in early March. A number of working groups will continue to meet throughout the year to deliver results on specific goals.  

 

The National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency is a public-private initiative that began in the fall of 2005 to create a sustainable, aggressive national commitment to energy efficiency through collaborative efforts of gas and electric utilities, utility regulators, state agencies and other partner organizations. 

 

More information on the SEE Action Network: http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-programs/seeaction/index.html

 

More information on reports and tools for states advancing energy efficiency: http://www.epa.gov/eeactionplan

Iowa Power Fund Community Grants Awarded for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

DES MOINES -- The Iowa Office of Energy Independence (OEI) is pleased to announce grants for 30 community based energy efficiency and renewable energy projects across the state.

 About the Community Grants Program

The Community Grants program is funded through four percent of the annual appropriation of the Iowa Power Fund. Cities, counties and non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for up to $50,000 to support community based programs. Some examples of qualified programs include: promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy locally, training for or creating jobs in the energy arena, establishing a community energy efficiency plan, creating public awareness about energy issues or helping community members understand how to identify and implement energy improvements.

Examples of the community grants awarded projects include:

• $50,000 for an energy study involving traffic patterns and the establishment of work hubs

• $50,000 for Renewable Fuels Education and Outreach

• $101,771 for Whole Town Energy Efficiency evaluation and planning that will impact 17+ communities across the state

• $45,000 for job training in energy efficiency

• $75,000 for k-12 education and renewable technology demonstration

 

A list of awarded projects is available on the Iowa Office of Energy Independence’s website at http://www.energy.iowa.gov/

The Office of Energy Independence will begin accepting applications for additional projects on February 5, 2010. All interested applicants may contact: Jessica Turba at (515) 725-0437 or Jessica.turba@iowa.gov

Iowa Receives $5.9 Million Energy Sector Green Jobs Grant

DES MOINES –  Governor Chet Culver today announced that Iowa has been awarded a three-year, $5.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to expand Iowa’s growing green economy sector and develop the skills necessary in the workforce to succeed in this new economy.  Iowa’s grant will target renewable energy, efficiency, Smart Grid Technology, Energy Assessments and other industries to increase the state’s overall strength in the green economy.  The overall goal of the grant is to bring state resources together to further develop the national green economy.

“Iowa is leading the way with the retention and creation of ‘green collar’ jobs of the future,” said Governor Culver. “I look forward to our continued work with the Iowa Energy Sector Partnership, public, and private entities as we work together to make Iowa the renewable energy capital of the United States, and build a world-class green economy.”

Over the next three years, the Iowa Energy Sector Partnership will implement a state-driven green workforce development plan with prioritized training needs, as identified by the Iowa Green Jobs Task Force.  The project will develop a statewide sector plan for the emerging green economy.  Iowa will focus on sustainable job growth in the Energy Sector and training workers with portable skills that provide opportunities and movement within the green sector.

Demand for upgraded energy efficiency at home is weak

 By Julie Schmit, USA TODAY

But consumer demand remains weak because of the cost and the dearth of strong financial incentives, which President Obama is now pushing Congress to provide.

"The big companies are coming to this area. But it's been difficult to get consumers to dig into their pockets," says Larry Zarker, CEO of the Building Performance Institute trade association.

In December, President Obama declared insulation "sexy" and pressed Congress to provide incentives to homeowners to improve home energy efficiency. Supporters call the idea "cash for caulkers" because it's similar to the government's "cash for clunkers" rebates that sparked auto sales last summer.

Supporters say incentives, matched by homeowner dollars, would drive energy retrofits, and the U.S. would cut energy use while putting construction workers back to work.

Read more

Des Moines Register guest column: Iowa utilities lead nation in promoting renewable energy, efficiency

While those carbon emissions are relatively small, Iowa and its utilities have worked aggressively to deliver energy efficiency programs and renewable energy to customers.

To read more....

EPA’s Energy Star Buildings Mark a Decade of Savings

 

Oldest, tallest, largest buildings named

 

WASHINGTON — Ten years ago, EPA unveiled a ground-breaking development in energy efficiency for the commercial marketplace – the first Energy Star building. Since 1999, Energy Star partners in the commercial marketplace have helped prevent nearly 120 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, equal to the emissions from the annual electricity use of more than 60 million American homes.

 

“The Energy Star story is one of eliminating barriers, driving demand, and delivering excellence,” said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “EPA is proud to celebrate a decade of Energy Star buildings in communities across America that play an important role in fighting global warming, improving energy efficiency, and saving money.”

 

To celebrate this important decade milestone, EPA is releasing the publication, Celebrating a Decade of Energy Star Buildings, which tells the history behind the Energy Star program and its development into a leading energy efficiency brand in the commercial marketplace. Buildings highlighted demonstrate the diversity of types of Energy Star buildings, including:

 

·         The oldest building to earn the Energy Star: Cambridge Savings Bank in Cambridge, Mass.

·         The tallest building to earn the Energy Star: Aon Center in Chicago

·         The largest building to earn the Energy Star: USAA McDermott Building in San Antonio, Texas

·         The first building to earn the Energy Star: Ridgehaven Green Building in San Diego, Calif.

 

Several buildings with notable tenants are also listed, including Amazon.com in Seattle, Wash.; National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C.; and MTV in Santa Monica, Calif. Finally, a selection of case studies chronicles how the energy efficiency of different buildings improved with help from Energy Star.

 

The Energy Star is available for 13 types of commercial buildings, including retail stores, hotels, schools, supermarkets and more. Nearly 9,000 buildings across the nation have earned the Energy Star for superior energy efficiency over the past decade and the numbers continue to climb daily. Energy Star buildings typically use 35 percent less energy and emit 35 percent less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than average buildings.

 

To obtain the publication: http://www.energystar.gov/decade

EPA Announces New Energy Star Requirements for Audio/Video Equipment

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is announcing new requirements for audio/video (AV) products to earn the Energy Star label. AV products meeting EPA’s new, more stringent specification will help protect the environment and reduce energy costs because they will be up to 60 percent more efficient than conventional models.

If all AV products sold in the United States met the new Energy Star requirements, Americans would save more than $1 billion in energy costs annually while reducing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of more than 1 million vehicles every year.

 

EPA revised the earlier Energy Star requirements for AV to address the rapid turnover of products and technologies, as well as changes in usage patterns within the category. The more inclusive and flexible specification will promote greater energy efficiency in today’s diverse market for audio/video products.

 

The new requirements for audio/video equipment cover a wider range of products including home-theater-in-a-box, audio amplifiers, AV receivers, shelf systems, DVD players, Blu Ray players, and docking stations that offer audio amplification or optical disc drive functions. Commercial AV products are also covered.

 

To earn the Energy Star label, AV products must consume less power when they are on and must power down automatically after a period of inactivity, using only small amounts of power to maintain settings and other features.

The new requirements for audio/video products previously eligible for the Energy Star will be effective July 30, 2010. For products previously excluded from Energy Star, such as commercial AV products and docking stations, the new requirements are effective immediately.

More information on Energy Star qualified audio/video products: http://www.energystar.gov/av

EPA’s Energy Star Program Hits Major Milestone: 1 Million Energy Star Homes Built in the United States

Houston, Dallas and Las Vegas top the list for most Energy Star homes

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today reaches a milestone for the Energy Star program by passing the 1 millionth Energy Star qualified home mark. With more than 15,000 partners in sectors all across the economy, Energy Star has been enormously successful at saving consumers money by reducing the energy usage of products used in the home and office everyday. Since the program began labeling new homes in 1995, Americans have saved $1.2 billion on their energy bills, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 22 billion pounds. This year alone, families living in Energy Star qualified homes will save more than $270 million on their utility bills, while avoiding greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from about 370,000 vehicles.

“This is an amazing achievement for the Energy Star program – but the real winners are the 1 million American families who have the chance to save money and keep harmful pollution out of the air. That’s great news for anyone who wants to cut costs and protect our planet,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “We’re going to keep the number of Energy Star homes growing, because every new Energy Star home is a step towards lower costs, cleaner air, and communities that are environmentally and economically sustainable.  We’re giving everyday American homebuyers the power to lower their bills and join the fight against climate change.”

To earn the Energy Star label, a home must meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by EPA.  Those guidelines can be met through established, reliable building techniques available to most middle-class American homeowners.  Those include effective insulation systems, high-performance windows, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment, and high-efficiency lighting and appliances. In addition, an independent home energy rater conducts onsite testing and inspections to verify that the home’s performance meets Energy Star requirements.

There are more than 6,500 builders across the nation building homes that earn the Energy Star label and qualified new homes can be found in every state in the country. The top 20 markets for Energy Star qualified homes built to date include: Houston, Texas; Dallas, Texas; Las Vegas, Nev.; Phoenix, Ariz.; Greater Los Angeles, Calif.; New York, N.Y.; Tucson, Ariz.; San Antonio, Texas; Sacramento, Calif.; San Diego, Calif.; Columbus, Ohio; Des Moines, Iowa; Indianapolis, Ind.; Austin, Texas; Philadelphia, Pa.; San Francisco, Calif.; Boston, Mass.; Denver, Colo.; Orlando, Fla.; and Oklahoma City, Okla.

More information about the features and benefits of Energy Star qualified homes and participating builders:  http://www.energystar.gov/onemillionhomes

ACEEE Releases Annual Scorecard Ranking States on Energy Efficiency

Administrator Jackson Visits Raleigh, Announces $200 Million Investment to Develop Smart Electric Grid in Carolinas, Florida

Part of $3.4 billion in smart grid recovery act funding announced by President Obama yesterday

WASHINGTON – U.S. EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson visited Raleigh today to announce a $200 million grant for a smarter, stronger and more efficient electric system in North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida. The funding, announced at a press conference with Lieutenant Governor Walter Dalton and Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker, is part of President Barack Obama’s announcement yesterday of the largest single energy grid modernization investment in U.S. history - $3.4 billion in Smart Grid Investment Grant Awards under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that will be matched by industry for a total investment worth more than $8 billion.
 
“A cornerstone of our new foundation for prosperity is the growth of the American clean energy economy,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “Investments in innovative Smart Grid technology will create new jobs, lower energy bills for consumers and businesses, promote more efficient and reliable energy delivery, and set the stage for affordable clean energy across the country.”

An analysis by the Electric Power Research Institute estimates that the implementation of smart grid technologies could reduce electricity use by more than 4 percent by 2030. That would mean a savings of $20.4 billion for businesses and consumers around the country, and $500 million for North Carolina alone – or $51 in utility savings for every man, woman and child in North Carolina.

“These funds will help us modernize North Carolina’s energy grid – empowering consumers to cut their electric bills and paving the way for a greener, more efficient energy system,” said North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue.

The $200 million grant, which Progress Energy will match with $300 million of its own funding, will fund system and equipment upgrades that will make their grid more efficient, saving consumers money in the Carolinas and in Florida. Progress Energy will also use its funding to install 160,000 smart meters and other technology that will cut energy costs for its customers.

“Progress Energy is currently investing in several Smart Grid initiatives to meet our customer’s changing electricity needs throughout the communities that rely on us for reliable power,” said Bill Johnson, Progress Energy chairman, president and CEO. “This grant program has the potential to expand investments necessary to transform the electric grid to give customers greater control of their energy use, enable utilities to harness the potential of renewable energy and electric vehicles and improve power quality and service reliability.”

North Carolina companies, serving five states, will receive $403 million total in recovery act funding for smart grid development, which will be matched by nearly $975 million in private funds for a total investment of $1.3 billion. Duke Energy will receive a similar $200 million grant.

More information on EPA and the recovery act:  http://www.epa.gov/recovery/

The Los Angeles Times reports California regulators appear to be on track to pass the nation's first ban on energy consuming, big-screen TVs.

For complete article, click here

President Obama signs an Executive Order Focused on Federal Leadership in Environmental, Energy, and Economic Performance

WASHINGTON, DC – Demonstrating a commitment to lead by example, President Obama signed an Executive Order (attached) today that sets sustainability goals for Federal agencies and focuses on making improvements in their environmental, energy and economic performance. The Executive Order requires Federal agencies to set a 2020 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target within 90 days; increase energy efficiency; reduce fleet petroleum consumption; conserve water; reduce waste; support sustainable communities; and leverage Federal purchasing power to promote environmentally-responsible products and technologies.

To view the entire press release click here

 

Source : THE WHITE HOUSE, Office of the Press Secretary

EPA Raises the Bar for Energy Star Televisions

 

Consumers will save more money and energy with new requirements

 

WASHINGTON – EPA has revised the qualifications for televisions to achieve the Energy Star label, requiring TVs to be 40 percent more energy efficient than conventional models. These requirements will help consumers save even more energy and money and fight climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions while allowing them to continue to enjoy the features, performance and quality they expect. Televisions meeting EPA’s new, more stringent Energy Star specifications will be available in stores nationwide starting May 1, 2010.

 

The new requirements raise the bar on how energy efficient a TV must be to earn the Energy Star label.  They require TVs to use less energy when turned on, ensure a satisfactory level of brightness and curb power associated with downloading program guide data. This all translates to big savings for consumers and the environment.  If all televisions sold in the United States met the new Energy Star requirements, Americans would save $2.5 billion annually in energy costs while reducing annual greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to the emissions of about 3 million cars.

 

With more than 19 million TVs with screens larger than 40 inches expected to ship to American homes in 2010, these Energy Star requirements will offer important savings in larger size TVs.  For example, the new requirements for 46 and 50 inch TV models will deliver almost 50 percent savings over conventional models of the same size. The new requirements announced today demonstrate the agency’s continuing commitment to helping consumers find and purchase the most efficient products in this highly dynamic product category.

 

More information: http://www.energystar.gov/tvspec

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

CONTACT:

Enesta Jones

jones.enesta@epa.gov

202-564-7873

EPA Challenges American School Districts to Save Energy and Money with Energy Star

Join schools that are already using 30 percent less energy and teaching students about energy efficiency

WASHINGTON —   During the back to school season, EPA is challenging school administrators and building managers to improve energy efficiency throughout their facilities. School districts can answer EPA’s call-to-action by taking the Energy Star Challenge, a pledge to improve the energy efficiency of our nation’s buildings. Schools that accept the challenge will join more than 500 school districts across the country that are helping to fight climate change by committing to reducing their energy use with help from Energy Star.

“Our schools are doing their best to prepare our children for the future, and now they can help make sure that future includes a clean, safe environment,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson.  “Taking the Energy Star Challenge will help participating districts cut down on their electricity bills.  Money they would have spent on energy can go back into the classroom, where it really belongs.”

The annual energy bill to operate America’s primary and secondary schools totals nearly $8 billion — more than is spent on textbooks and computers combined. Schools that take the Energy Star Challenge can use energy tracking tools, technical guidance, case studies, and other Energy Star tools and resources to help them improve their energy efficiency.

Nearly 2,000 schools have earned EPA’s Energy Star label for superior energy efficiency, including some in Oregon’s Gresham-Barlow School District, which cut energy use by 48 percent. In one year, the district saved more than $1.3 million in utility costs, the equivalent of 24 fulltime teachers’ salaries. Council Rock, a school district in Pa., has reduced its energy use by 40 percent since 2005, mostly through improved operations and maintenance of building systems. In a three-year period, the district saved more than $4.7 million.

EPA is also asking parents, teachers and students to work together to save energy at home and at school. To engage youth and families in learning about changes they can make in their homes and schools to save energy and protect the environment, Energy Star has teamed with Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) Today, a national organization dedicated to supporting family involvement in education. Together with Energy Star, PTO Today offers “Go Green Night” activities to the nation’s parent-teacher organizations, to help families learn about saving energy together. 

Sign up your school for the Energy Star Challenge: http://energystar.gov/challenge
See map of Energy Star qualified schools near you: http://www.energystar.gov/buildinglist

 

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

CONTACT:
Enesta Jones
jones.enesta@epa.gov
202-564-7873
202-564-4355