According to the latest report from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Buildings Challenge, on average, participants are improving energy efficiency by more than 2% per year.
This is in line with meeting energy savings goals of 20% over the next 10 years. Energy performance results for nearly 38,000 properties have been recorded to date.
Participants are contributing to the more than 1,000 proven solutions now available online in the Better Buildings Solution Center. “When partners share their energy and water savings strategies and results, they demonstrate their collective leadership by making it easier for others to replicate their success,” says a DOE news release.
Energy efficiency efforts have led to a reduction of a combined 240 trillion Btus and an estimated $1.9 billion in cumulative energy and cost savings, DOE says. The results are summarized in the 2017 Better Buildings Progress Report.
Related Stories
Urban Planning | Aug 27, 2019
Pop-up parks revitalize empty lots
Pop-up parks that provide instant open areas for public use and programming can revitalize under-utilized spaces and add vibrancy to neighborhoods.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Texas flood prevention initiative would create nation’s most ambitious barrier system
Plan including sand dunes and mechanical barriers would cost as much as $32 billion.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Multimedia app identifies construction hazards
Researchers say program will reduce injuries, save lives.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Cities take action to keep cool as climate heats up
Initiatives include cool streets, cool roofs, and broader urban tree canopy.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
5G expected to give a boost to construction technology
Virtual reality, Internet of Things, robotics, and drones will all benefit from enhanced data flows.
Codes and Standards | Aug 15, 2019
New edition of Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete available
American Concrete Institute document includes major technical changes.
Codes and Standards | Aug 13, 2019
Coaching pays off for new managers
Study finds increased engagement and readiness for new roles.
Codes and Standards | Aug 12, 2019
New curtain wall design guidelines released
AAMA document includes mandatory language, optional language, and detailed technical commentary.
Codes and Standards | Aug 9, 2019
Cities modify density zoning to spur more affordable housing projects
Solutions include eliminating single-family zoning and allowing taller apartments in higher-density zones.
Codes and Standards | Aug 8, 2019
More designers focusing on acoustic properties of buildings
Recognition that structures should be acoustically satisfying.