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Tag: Energy Efficiency Laws

  • Energy Audit – The Connection Between Building Health and Energy Efficiency

    Energy Audit – The Connection Between Building Health and Energy Efficiency

    Introduction

    Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in our efforts to combat climate change and create a sustainable future. Buildings, in particular, are responsible for a significant portion of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. To address this issue, energy audits have emerged as powerful tools for identifying energy-saving opportunities and improving the overall efficiency of buildings. However, energy audits help reduce energy consumption and directly impact building health and occupant well-being. In this article, we will explore the connection between building health and energy efficiency, highlighting the importance of energy audits in promoting both.

    Understanding Energy Efficiency

    Before delving into the relationship between building health and energy efficiency, let us first understand what energy efficiency entails. Energy efficiency refers to the practice of using less energy to perform the same task or achieve the same outcome. In the context of buildings, it involves optimizing energy consumption while maintaining or enhancing occupant comfort and productivity.

    Energy efficiency offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it reduces energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills for building owners and occupants. Additionally, it helps in mitigating the environmental impact of buildings by reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production. Moreover, energy-efficient buildings often provide improved indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and lighting conditions, leading to healthier and more productive occupants.

    The Basics of Energy Audits

    Energy audits are thorough evaluations of a building’s energy performance and usage. They seek to find energy waste, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement. Energy audits come in a variety of forms, from straightforward walk-through audits to more in-depth and comprehensive analyses. The complexity of the facility, the available money, and the desired depth of study all affect the sort of energy audit that is undertaken.

    A building’s numerous components are assessed during an energy audit. These consist of examining energy consumption trends, checking for air leaks and inadequate insulation in the building envelope, checking the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, measuring lighting effectiveness and examining appliances and other pieces of equipment. Energy auditors can identify locations where energy is being wasted by looking at these factors and can then suggest the best courses of action to increase energy efficiency.

    Benefits of Energy Audits

    Energy audits offer many benefits for building owners, occupants, and the environment. Firstly, they provide a clear understanding of a building’s energy usage, allowing stakeholders to identify energy-saving opportunities. By implementing the recommended energy efficiency measures, significant cost savings can be achieved through reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills.

    Furthermore, energy audits help in uncovering hidden energy inefficiencies and wastage. They shed light on areas that may otherwise go unnoticed, such as air leaks, outdated HVAC systems, inefficient lighting, and suboptimal equipment usage. By addressing these issues, buildings can operate more efficiently, reducing their environmental impact and carbon footprint.

    In addition to financial savings and environmental benefits, energy audits contribute to building health and occupant well-being. Many building health issues directly impact energy efficiency. By addressing these concerns during an energy audit, not only can energy consumption be reduced, but the overall health and comfort of occupants can also be improved.

    The Connection Between Building Health and Energy Efficiency

    Relationship Between Building Health and Energy Efficiency

    The relationship between building health and energy efficiency is closely intertwined. Building health refers to the conditions within a building that affect the well-being of its occupants. Several common building health issues have a direct impact on energy efficiency, and addressing them can lead to substantial energy savings.

    Air leaks and poor insulation are prime examples. Air leakage through cracks, gaps, and poorly sealed windows or doors can result in significant energy losses as conditioned air escapes and unconditioned air infiltrates the building. Inefficient insulation exacerbates this problem by allowing heat transfer between the interior and exterior of the building. By addressing air leaks and improving insulation, buildings can reduce energy waste and create a more comfortable indoor environment.

    Another building health concern affecting energy efficiency is outdated or inefficient HVAC systems. Inefficient heating or cooling systems not only consume more energy but also fail to provide adequate comfort and indoor air quality. By upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems, buildings can achieve significant energy savings while enhancing occupant comfort and health.

    Poor lighting design and outdated lighting technologies also contribute to energy waste. Inefficient lighting systems consume excessive energy and may create inadequate lighting conditions. By adopting energy-efficient lighting solutions such as LED lighting and incorporating daylighting strategies, buildings can reduce energy consumption while improving lighting quality and occupant well-being.

    Mold and moisture problems are yet another building health issue that impacts energy efficiency. Moisture intrusion, condensation, and mold growth can compromise the building envelope and HVAC systems, leading to increased energy consumption and potential health hazards. Energy audits help in identifying moisture-related issues and recommending remediation strategies to prevent further energy waste and maintain a healthy indoor environment.

    Indoor air quality (IAQ) concerns are paramount to building health and occupant well-being. Poor IAQ can result from several factors such as inadequate ventilation, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and allergens. Energy audits can assess the ventilation systems, identify sources of air pollution, and suggest measures to improve IAQ while minimizing energy losses.

    By addressing these building health issues during energy audits, building owners and managers can simultaneously improve energy efficiency and create healthier environments for occupants.

    Energy Audit Process

    There are normally numerous steps in the energy audit process. Pre-audit preparations involve gathering building information, obtaining utility bills, and arranging the audit. Data gathering, measurements, and inspections of various building components are all part of the on-site examination. Following data collection, analysis is done to determine patterns in energy consumption and potential areas for energy savings. The energy auditor compiles a thorough report with recommendations for increasing energy efficiency based on the results, ranking the recommendations in order of impact and cost-effectiveness.

    Implementing Energy Efficiency Improvements

    After receiving the energy audit report, building owners can prioritize and implement the recommended energy efficiency measures. The measures can vary depending on the specific needs and characteristics of the building. Some common energy-saving measures include improving insulation and air sealing, upgrading HVAC systems, adopting energy-efficient lighting solutions, and integrating smart building technologies.

    Insulation and air sealing play a critical role in reducing energy waste by minimizing heat transfer through the building envelope. Adding insulation to walls, attics, and floors, and sealing air leaks can significantly improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

    Upgrading HVAC systems to more energy-efficient models or optimizing the existing systems through maintenance and retrofitting can lead to substantial energy savings. Energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment, combined with smart thermostats and advanced control systems, can enhance comfort while reducing energy consumption.

    Improvements of Energy EfficiencyLighting accounts for a significant portion of a building’s energy usage. Replacing inefficient lighting technologies with energy-efficient options, such as LED bulbs, can result in significant energy savings and improved lighting quality.

    Smart building technologies, including occupancy sensors, advanced energy management systems, and building automation systems, offer further opportunities for energy savings. These technologies optimize energy usage based on occupancy, occupancy patterns, and external conditions, ensuring energy is used efficiently while maintaining occupant comfort.

    Calculating Return on Investment (ROI)

    When considering energy efficiency improvements, it is essential to evaluate the return on investment (ROI) of each measure. Energy audits often provide estimates of the potential energy and cost savings associated with recommended measures. By comparing the upfront costs of implementing the measures with the projected savings over their lifespan, building owners can make informed decisions regarding the most cost-effective energy efficiency upgrades.

    Lessons Learned and Best Practices

    Throughout the journey of energy audits and energy efficiency improvements, valuable lessons have been learned and best practices have emerged. It is crucial to share these insights and experiences to facilitate knowledge exchange and promote effective approaches to energy efficiency in buildings. Some key lessons and best practices include conducting regular energy audits, engaging occupants in energy-saving initiatives, considering life cycle costs rather than solely focusing on upfront expenses, and staying updated on emerging technologies and energy-saving strategies.

    Conclusion

    Energy audits are powerful tools for enhancing both energy efficiency and building health. By identifying energy-saving opportunities and addressing building health concerns, energy audits contribute to cost savings, reduced environmental impact, improved occupant comfort, and healthier indoor environments. Building owners, managers, and occupants could leverage energy audits to create sustainable buildings that prioritize energy efficiency and occupant well-being. It is imperative that we recognize the connection between building health and energy efficiency and take proactive steps to improve both for a greener and healthier future.

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    If you are looking for an expert Commercial Energy Audit and Benchmark Compliance consultancy, look no further! Contact us at Vertpro.com! We are an award-winning Energy Benchmarking and Audit Consultancy, recognized on Inc. 5000, providing innovative SaaS technology-based solutions for Building Owners & Property Managers to Simplify Energy Compliance with all 50+ Energy Benchmarking & Energy Efficiency Laws Nationwide. From Energy Benchmarking to Energy Audits/RCx Plus, Building Upgrades and Construction Marketplace, VertPro® has you covered.

  • Why Energy Benchmarking Is Critical for Building Efficiency

    Why Energy Benchmarking Is Critical for Building Efficiency

    Introduction

    The growing environmental effect of energy usage has made energy efficiency a significant issue in today’s society. Particularly, buildings play a significant role in both energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, enhancing a building’s energy efficiency has become a critical goal. Energy benchmarking is crucial in this situation. Measurement and comparison of a building’s energy performance to defined metrics and industry standards is known as energy benchmarking. In this post, we’ll look at the importance of energy benchmarking for building efficiency and how it helps us evaluate, compare, and improve energy performance precisely.

    The Significance of Energy Efficiency in Buildings

    Buildings are responsible for a significant portion of global energy consumption and carbon emissions. According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), buildings account for nearly 40% of global energy use and approximately one-third of greenhouse gas emissions. This highlights the urgent need to reduce energy consumption in buildings and transition to more sustainable practices.

    Energy efficiency in buildings involves optimizing energy use while maintaining occupant comfort and productivity. It encompasses various aspects, such as efficient building design, insulation, lighting, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, and the use of renewable energy sources. By improving energy efficiency, we can reduce carbon footprints, lower energy costs, enhance occupant well-being, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

    Understanding Energy Benchmarking

    Energy benchmarking provides a systematic approach to measure and evaluate a building’s energy performance. It involves collecting and analyzing data on energy consumption, identifying Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and comparing a building’s energy performance to similar buildings or established benchmarks. Energy benchmarking helps building owners and managers understand their energy usage patterns, identify inefficiencies, and make informed decisions to improve energy efficiency.

    Several metrics and indicators are used in energy benchmarking, such as Energy Use Intensity (EUI), energy cost per square foot, greenhouse gas emissions, and Energy Star ratings. These metrics provide standardized measurements that enable meaningful comparisons and assessments of a building’s energy performance. Additionally, benchmarking tools and platforms facilitate data collection, analysis, and reporting, streamlining the benchmarking process.

    Accurate Measurement of Energy Performance

    Energy Efficiency Measures in Buildings

    Accurate measurement of energy performance is crucial for identifying areas of improvement and evaluating the effectiveness of energy-saving initiatives. Energy benchmarking enables building owners and managers to collect and analyze reliable energy data, which serves as a baseline for future comparisons. By understanding how and when energy is consumed, they can identify patterns and anomalies, uncovering opportunities for optimization.

    For instance, through energy benchmarking, a building may discover that energy consumption spikes during non-business hours due to inefficient equipment scheduling or inadequate insulation. With this knowledge, appropriate actions can be taken, such as optimizing equipment schedules, implementing energy-efficient technologies, or improving insulation. By accurately measuring energy performance, buildings can identify the most effective strategies for reducing energy consumption and achieving substantial energy savings.

    Comparison and Ranking of Energy Performance

    Energy benchmarking not only enables accurate measurement but also facilitates comparison and ranking of a building’s energy performance against similar buildings. Benchmarking allows building owners and managers to assess their building’s energy performance relative to industry standards, peer buildings, or established targets.

    Comparisons provide insights into how a building performs in relation to others in terms of energy consumption, costs, and emissions. By identifying outliers, underperforming buildings, or areas for improvement, benchmarking allows for targeted actions to enhance energy efficiency. Moreover, benchmarking helps set realistic goals and targets for energy reduction, allowing buildings to track progress over time and establish best practices.

    Several energy benchmarking platforms and resources are available to support comparisons and rankings. These platforms aggregate data from multiple buildings, enabling owners and managers to benchmark their energy performance against a broader set of peers. Such platforms foster healthy competition, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, driving continuous improvements in building energy efficiency.

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    Driving Energy Efficiency Improvements

    Energy benchmarking plays a crucial role in driving energy efficiency improvements. By identifying inefficiencies and areas for optimization, benchmarking acts as a catalyst for change. Armed with accurate data and comparative analysis, building owners and managers can make informed decisions about energy-saving measures and investments.

    For example, benchmarking might reveal that a building’s HVAC system consumes significantly more energy compared to similar buildings. This insight could prompt an assessment of the system’s performance, leading to adjustments, retrofits, or replacements that improve energy efficiency. Similarly, benchmarking can identify opportunities for implementing lighting upgrades, insulation improvements, or renewable energy installations, all aimed at reducing energy consumption.

    Implementing energy efficiency improvements not only reduces energy costs but also enhances the comfort and well-being of building occupants. Moreover, energy-efficient buildings often command higher property values and attract environmentally conscious tenants, providing additional incentives for building owners to invest in energy efficiency.

    Link between Energy Benchmarking and Regulations/Certifications

    Energy benchmarking is closely linked to energy certifications and regulatory compliance. Many jurisdictions around the world have implemented building energy disclosure and benchmarking policies that require building owners to report their energy usage data. This data transparency helps create awareness, accountability, and drives energy efficiency improvements.

    Furthermore, energy benchmarking serves as a foundation for various energy certification programs. Certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), assess and recognize buildings based on their energy performance, sustainability features, and environmental impact. Energy benchmarking data often forms a crucial component of the certification process, providing evidence of a building’s energy efficiency achievements.

    Overcoming Challenges in Energy Benchmarking

    While energy benchmarking offers substantial benefits, several challenges need to be addressed for its effective implementation. One challenge involves data availability and quality. Accurate benchmarking relies on reliable and consistent energy data, which can be challenging to obtain, especially for older or less sophisticated buildings. Building owners and managers must invest in robust data collection systems and ensure the accuracy and completeness of the data they collect.

    Another challenge revolves around privacy concerns and data sharing. Building energy data often contains sensitive information that must be handled with care. Appropriate measures, such as anonymization or aggregation, should be implemented to protect privacy while still enabling effective benchmarking and comparisons.

    Training and awareness are essential for successful energy benchmarking initiatives. Building owners and managers need to understand the benefits, methodologies, and tools associated with benchmarking. Education and training programs can equip them with the necessary skills to implement benchmarking effectively and derive meaningful insights from the data.

    To overcome these challenges, policymakers can provide support through the development of standardized protocols, data exchange frameworks, and incentives. Governments can also play a role in promoting awareness, providing training resources, and facilitating collaboration among stakeholders to drive widespread adoption of energy benchmarking practices.

    Case Studies and Success Stories

    Effectiveness of Energy Benchmarking - Case Studies

    Numerous case studies highlight the effectiveness of energy benchmarking in achieving substantial energy savings. For example, the Empire State Building in New York City implemented an energy efficiency retrofit that included energy benchmarking. By comparing its energy performance against similar buildings, the Empire State Building identified areas for improvement and implemented measures that led to a 38% reduction in energy consumption and $4.4 million in annual energy savings.

    Another success story comes from the city of Seattle, which implemented a mandatory energy benchmarking and reporting program for commercial and multifamily buildings. Over time, the program has helped the city’s buildings achieve an average energy use reduction of 10% and has catalyzed investments in energy efficiency measures.

    These examples demonstrate the transformative potential of energy benchmarking in driving significant energy savings and fostering sustainability in the built environment.

    Future Trends and Innovations in Energy Benchmarking

    Looking ahead, energy benchmarking is expected to evolve and benefit from emerging trends and innovations. Technological advancements, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), sensor technologies, and building automation systems, will facilitate real-time data collection and analysis, enabling more dynamic benchmarking practices.

    Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) will play a significant role in enhancing energy benchmarking. These technologies can analyze vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and provide actionable insights for energy efficiency improvements. AI-powered benchmarking systems can continuously monitor and optimize building performance, adapt to changing occupancy patterns, and suggest energy-saving measures based on real-time data.

    Moreover, international efforts to standardize benchmarking protocols and develop more comprehensive frameworks will provide a solid foundation for global energy benchmarking practices. Such standardization will enable better data comparability, foster collaboration across borders, and support the development of comprehensive international benchmarks.

    Conclusion

    Energy benchmarking is a critical tool for achieving building efficiency and reducing energy consumption. By providing accurate measurement, facilitating comparisons, and driving energy efficiency improvements, benchmarking empowers building owners and managers to make informed decisions and take effective actions.

    The significance of energy benchmarking will keep increasing as the world’s attention turns more and more toward sustainability. Building owners, managers, and legislators may realize significant energy savings, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient built environment by giving energy benchmarking programs top priority. Adopting energy benchmarking is a commitment to a greener and more energy-efficient environment as well as an investment in the future.

    If you are looking for an expert Commercial Energy Audit and Benchmark Compliance consultancy, look no further! Contact us at Vertpro.com! We are an award-winning Energy Benchmarking and Audit Consultancy, recognized on Inc. 5000, providing innovative SaaS technology-based solutions for Building Owners & Property Managers to Simplify Energy Compliance with all 50+ Energy Benchmarking & Energy Efficiency Laws Nationwide. From Energy Benchmarking to Energy Audits/RCx Plus, Building Upgrades and Construction Marketplace, VertPro® has you covered.

  • A Gift for You

    A Gift for You

    A Gift for You! All New VertPro.com

    Be one of the first to experience a new and improved Energy Benchmarking Dashboard with new easy-to-use features. Managing your entire portfolio has never been easier and faster!

    With a growing client base and additional services, the new platform will create a better customer experience by managing multi-service compliance requirements in one easy-to-use space. From benchmarking and audits to building upgrades and rebates, the new platform will identify all energy-saving opportunities for multi-building portfolios with the click of a button.

    New users can enjoy the new and improved dashboard that consolidates all their information in one safe and secure place upon sign-up. In contrast, existing users will experience the new dashboard and features upon rollout on January 2, 2023. A notable new feature is the chat box which adds to a more user-friendly platform, creating ease of contacting a professional with any questions. A refreshed energy scorecard tool utilizes all your building’s information to discover the amount of money that can be potentially saved by implementing energy-saving measures.

    VertPro® makes it easy to identify new opportunities, implement upgrades, and comply with various, often confusing, local, and federal sustainability regulations. The platform’s innovative features simplify the process from start to finish, allowing building owners to save money, reduce project risks, decrease operating costs, and increase property values. From identifying underperforming buildings, and conducting Energy Audits to find cost-effective improvement opportunities, to sourcing energy rebates and financing opportunities to get your projects off the ground, VertPro® does it all. Sign up today to reveal the new features we couldn’t wait to share with you

    “Without change, there is no innovation, creativity, or incentive for improvement.” – William Pollard

    Closing out 2022 Compliance & Looking Ahead

    As we close out 2022, and with 2023 quickly approaching, it is important to make sure you have complied with all benchmarking laws for 2022. With only 25 days left in 2022, time is of the essence to avoid potential fines and violations for non-compliance. If you have already completed your 2022 benchmark, it is a great time to start planning for your 2023 benchmark! Looking ahead to the upcoming year it is important to note that more cities are adopting benchmarking laws and requirements are being updated for already existing laws.

    Adding to the already 50+ cities that have benchmarking requirements, New Jersey State and Miami, FL will begin to require compliance with benchmarking laws starting in 2023. The City of San Francisco will also require all multi-family buildings to upgrade fire alarm systems. Planning early for this will be beneficial as fire horn prices are set to drastically increase by 20-30% in 2023.

    The City of San Francisco will require all multi-family buildings to upgrade fire alarm systems to pass the “Pillow Test” to comply with the SFFC Section 1103.7.6.1. After several devastating apartment fires hit the City in 2016, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed legislation to seriously strengthen safety in multi-family properties. Most of these requirements went into effect shortly thereafter. However, a new mandate goes into effect on July 1, 2023, requiring a manual fire alarm system that would be more likely to wake sleeping residents.

    These new alarms are not only louder but more effective, as they also use low-frequency horns or speakers that are more likely to wake a sleeping person. These lower frequencies require more energy to make them sound and unfortunately most existing fire alarm systems are not designed to handle the additional power required. Therefore, a new system will often be required to be installed before July 1, 2023.

    As energy efficiency continues to be an increasingly important issue for cities, states, and the nation, new energy laws and regulations are being enacted to mandate better performance from commercial and multifamily properties. Metrics you need to reach, deadlines, and specifics on how to file your energy performance with your municipality vary from city to city. To find out what this means for you and your building continue reading here: The Vert Report Vol. 25 – New Energy Efficiency Laws (vertenergygroup.com)

    Get to Know Your Local Energy Audits

    With consistently changing laws and regulations, and new requirements being added every year, we understand that compliance can be tricky. Energy Audits are the first and most critical step toward understanding how energy is being used, how it is being wasted, and how you can take control of future price increases. To ensure compliance by deadline it’s suggested that you request your audit 6-9 months prior to the due date, making it time to start planning for 2023!

    Vert Energy Group has been servicing the Los Angeles and San Francisco area for many years and are experts in the Energy Benchmarks and Energy Audits/RCx field. Vert Energy Group engineers conduct their audits in accordance with the high standards developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

    We have compiled a breakdown of important dates and requirements for upcoming Energy Audit deadlines for Atlanta, GA; Boston, MA; Austin, TX; Seattle, WA; and Reno, NV. These are cities in which we are now available to help complete your Energy Audit and keep you in compliance! Mark your calendars with important dates, and requirements to avoid potential fines/violations.

     

    Atlanta, GA

     

    CBEEO- Commercial Building Energy Efficiency Ordinance

     

    Deadline:

    · Dec 31, 2022: Bldg IDs ending in “2”

    *2022 deadline extended to January 4th, 2023

    · Dec 31, 2023: Bldg IDs ending in “3”

    · Dec 31, 2024: Bldg IDs ending in “4”

    · Dec 31, 2025: Bldg IDs ending in “5”

    ·  Dec 31, 2026: Bldg IDs ending in “6”

    ·  Dec 31, 2027: Bldg IDs ending in “7”

    ·  Dec 31, 2028: Bldg IDs ending in “8”

    ·  Dec 31, 2029: Bldg IDs ending in “9”

     

    Sq. Ft. Minimum:

    ·      Commercial ≥ 50,000

    ·      Public ≥ 25,000

    Length of Compliance: Every 10 years starting in 2020

     

    Audit must be comparable to an ASHRAE Level II
    audit.

     

     

    Austin, TX

     

    ECAD – The Energy Conservation Audit & Disclosure Ordinance

     

    Deadline: Time of Sale / June 1, 2023

     

    Sq. Ft. Minimum:

    · Multifamily bldgs ≥ 5 units, 10 years or older

    ·  Homes 1-4 units, 10 years or older

     

    Length of Compliance: Time of Sale & once every 10 years after

     

    Exemptions:

    ·Bldg is less than 10 years of age.

    · Bldg participated in Austin Electric Utility program or Austin Energy Free Weatherization Program within 10 years of the sale and performed appropriate efficiency measures, or the purchaser has agreed to do so within six months after the time of sale.

     

    Energy Audits + Mandatory Upgrades: After conducting an audit, multifamily owners whose energy use exceeds 150% of the average must implement improvements
    to reduce energy use by 20%.

     

     

    Boston, MA

     

    BERDO – Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinance

     

    Deadline:

    · May 15, 2021: Non-residential bldgs 35,000 to 50,000 sq. ft.

    ·  May 15, 2022: Residential bldgs ≥ 35 units or 35,000 sq. ft.

    ·  May 15, 2024: Non-residential bldgs ≥ 50,000 sq. ft.

    ·  May 15, 2025: Residential bldgs ≥ 50 units or 50,000 sq. ft.

     

    Sq. Ft. Minimum:

    ·  Commercial ≥ 35,000

    ·  Public ≥ 25,000

    ·  MultiFamily ≥ 35,000/35 units

    ·  All Public/Gov’t

    Length of Compliance: Every 5 years


    Audit OR performance actions required.     Actions are significant investment in efficiency, comprehensive energy management plan, or retro-commissioning of energy systems. Bldgs over 50,000 sq. ft. have more stringent requirements. Owners can comply by retro-commissioning instead of an audit.

     

    Reno, NV

    ReEnergize: Energy and Water Efficiency Program

    Deadline:

    ·      2026: City bldgs.

    ·      2028: Agency-owned/privately-owned bldgs ≥ 100,000 sq. ft.

    ·      2029: Agency-owned/privately-owned bldgs ≥ 50,000 sq. ft.

    ·      2032: Agency-owned/privately-owned bldgs ≥ 30,000 sq. ft.

    Sq. Ft. Minimum:

    ·     Commercial & Multifamily ≥30,000 and does not meet performance target

    ·      Public/Gov’t ≥ 10,000 and does not meet performance target

    Length of Compliance: Every 7 years

    Exemptions: For energy and water audit:

    ·       LEED Existing blgs (2009 or later)

    ·       LEED O&M for existing bldg (Version 4 or 4.1)
    Comparable rating system for existing bldgs

    Retuning or an energy and water audit are pathways to fulfill performance targets of the law.

     

    Seattle, WA

    Building Tune-Ups, SMC: 22.930

    Deadline:

    ·      Oct. 1, 2021: bldgs 50,000 to 69,999 sq. ft. excluding parking

    ·      Oct. 1, 2023: bldgs ≥ 200,000 sq. ft.

    ·      Oct. 1, 2024: bldgs 100,000 to 199,999 sq. ft. excluding parking

    ·      Oct. 1, 2025: bldgs 70,000 to 99,999 sq. ft. excluding parking

    Sq. Ft. Minimum:

    ·      Commercial and City-owned ≥ 50,000

    Length of Compliance: Every 5 years

    Building energy and water tune-ups include both mandatory and voluntary corrective actions for building owners to undertake.

    If you are looking for more information about your city’s requirements or if your city isn’t listed above, head on over to https://vertpro.com/2023-Energy-Audits to speak with a professional today! A compliance specialist will answer any questions you may have and help simplify any requirement to get you in compliance today!

    “The biggest room in the world is the room for improvement.” – Helmut Schmidt

     

    How to Build Santa’s Sleigh

    Santa’s sleigh is one of the most iconic images of Christmas, but have you ever wondered how it is put together? Santa sure knows his way around a toolbox! Here are some tips on how to build your own sleigh just like him.

    First, you’ll need to gather your materials. For the frame and body of the sleigh, you’ll need wood. Make sure you pick pieces that are strong and light! You’ll also need some large nails or screws to hold it together. For the runners, you can use either metal or wood – just make sure they’re smooth for a comfortable ride. Next up is painting your sleigh. Choose a festive color like red, green, or white to get that classic Santa look. Don’t forget to add some eye-catching decorations like jingle bells and candy cane stripes!

    Once you’re done painting and decorating, it’s time to attach the runners. Make sure they are securely fastened so your sleigh can take off with ease. To give it an extra special touch, why not add a few reindeer figurines on the front? Finally, you’ll need to give your sleigh some oomph. You can buy pre-made rocket boosters or attach some large helium balloons for a classic Santa lift-off! Be sure to keep the balloons safely away from any heat sources.

    And there you have it – a festive sleigh that’s sure to make Santa proud! Whether you plan on taking off around the world or just using it for decoration, building your own Santa sleigh is an exciting and rewarding project. What are you waiting for? Get to building your Santa sleigh today!

    Fun Fact:

    Did you know that Jingle Bells was the first song to ever be broadcast from space? Upon re-entry to the earth’s atmosphere, ground controllers began to hear Jingle Bells being played by the astronauts aboard the Gemini 6!

    Another fun fact about Jingle Bells: It was never written to be a Christmas song! James Lord Pierpont who wrote Jingle Bells first performed it at a thanksgiving church service. If you listen to the lyrics there is no mention of any holiday at all! Jingle Bells only became a Christmas song decades later in 1857! Source

    Stephanie’s Section

    Holiday Celebrations

    No matter where you go, you can find something special to celebrate in the wintertime! Holidays during this season range from religious observances to secular festivities all around the world. Here are some of our favorite winter holidays from different countries. In Germany, people gather for Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas Markets) which are festive public markets filled with traditional treats and sweets. Decorated stalls are scattered throughout the streets, offering visitors hot drinks, handmade items, and plenty of holiday cheer.

    In Japan, people celebrate Oshogatsu (New Year’s Day). It is a time for families to come together and reflect on the past year while looking forward to the future. Although gifts are exchanged, the emphasis is on spiritual renewal and appreciation for nature’s beauty. In the United Arab Emirates, Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan—a month-long period of fasting. After a day spent celebrating with family and friends, people dress in their finest clothes to attend mosques and offer prayers of gratitude. This is followed by a huge feast shared with family and friends known as the “Breaking of the Fast”.

    Regardless of where you are in the world, winter is a special time to come together and celebrate! Holidays around the world provide us opportunities to come together and appreciate our differences while uniting over shared experiences and moments of joy. So, wherever you are this winter season, take a moment to explore the holiday traditions that make us all unique!

    Happy Holidays!

    Want your Make Your Building Green? Get an Energy Audit! »

    Energy Compliance, Nationwide Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

    There are over 30 cities/states with Energy Benchmark requirements – 16 have Energy Audit requirements as well! Use this free tool to check if your building has an upcoming Energy Benchmark or Energy Audit deadline.

    FIND OUT HERE »