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ASHRAE released a potential roadmap for the federal government to use in addressing issues related to energy efficiency and environmental concerns.
“Protecting America’s Economy and Conserving Our Environment: The Buildings Answer” provides policy recommendations for the new Congress from ASHRAE. In its recommendations, ASHRAE notes that: fueled in part by population growth and the rise in building floorspace, the nation’s demand and consumption of energy is expected to grow by 14% through 2035. Residential and commercial building energy expenditures accounted for $445.8 billion in 2008, and lead the way in primary energy use, accounting for approximately 40%, ahead of industry (32%) and transportation (28%).
“As part of the call for fiscal and environmental conservation, all individuals and stakeholders must work to discover ways to use our financial resources wisely and protect the environment,” said Lynn G. Bellenger, ASHRAE president.
The report provides detailed recommendations on shaping energy policy. Some of the recommendations include:
Include energy efficiency as a renewable fuel source within renewable standards portfolio
Encourage decoupling of utility rates from energy sales
Encourage states to implement utility demand-side management programs
Support implementation of smart grid and micro-grid systems
Remove barriers to grid-connection for on-site power generation
Set realistic depreciation schedules for HVAC&R equipment to encourage high-efficiency replacements
Support implementation of technologies utilizing energy previously deemed as waste heat
Make the Business R&D Tax Credit permanent
Fund research on on-site and off-site renewable energy technologies
Establish ASHRAE Standards 62.1, 62.2 and 55 as the major national minimum guidelines on indoor air quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort management
Support research to significantly advance understanding of the impact of IEQ on work performance, health symptoms and perceived environmental quality in offices
Fund research to understand the influences of HVAC&R on airborne pathogen transmission in public spaces and develop effective control strategies.
“Protecting America’s Economy and Conserving Our Environment: The Buildings Answer” provides policy recommendations for the new Congress from ASHRAE. In its recommendations, ASHRAE notes that: fueled in part by population growth and the rise in building floorspace, the nation’s demand and consumption of energy is expected to grow by 14% through 2035. Residential and commercial building energy expenditures accounted for $445.8 billion in 2008, and lead the way in primary energy use, accounting for approximately 40%, ahead of industry (32%) and transportation (28%).
“As part of the call for fiscal and environmental conservation, all individuals and stakeholders must work to discover ways to use our financial resources wisely and protect the environment,” said Lynn G. Bellenger, ASHRAE president.
The report provides detailed recommendations on shaping energy policy. Some of the recommendations include:
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