The drop in the cost of “green” energy over the past fifteen years has been phenomenal. Solar power generation today costs 10% of what it did in 2009. Wind power costs less than 30%. Under certain circumstances, solar and wind power, at the scale that a major utility would deploy them, are now a bit less expensive than natural gas-fired power plants and considerably cheaper than coal and nuclear.
However, the cheapest energy is the energy you don’t use. Energy efficiency is the use of less energy to perform the same task or produce the same result. Energy-efficient buildings use less energy to heat, cool, and run appliances and electronics, and energy-efficient manufacturing facilities use less energy to produce goods.
Energy efficiency is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to combat climate change, reduce energy costs, and improve competitiveness. Energy efficiency is also a vital component in achieving net-zero emissions of carbon dioxide through decarbonization.
80% of commercial buildings were never designed to be energy efficient. The good news for building owners is there are many options available that can help.
Utilities, local governments, and state agencies offer energy incentive programs that help make energy efficiency a more affordable option. Depending on your state or municipality, programs can take the form of rebates, tax incentives, or loans for qualified purchases.
While specifics vary from program to program, savings categories frequently include financial incentives for HVAC systems, water heaters, building insulation, appliances, weatherization, lighting, and other energy-efficient improvements. Before you make an energy-efficient purchase, visit the Department of Energy (DOE) website to search their database of energy efficiency tax credits, rebates, and savings available at the local and state level.
Building Assure has developed a solution that is designed with the small building owner in mind. Our low-cost solution provides all the necessary data to monitor energy consumption and waste, air quality, thermal comfort (temperature and humidity), water leak detection, equipment maintenance, and service quality (was the service conducted, and did it achieve the desired results). All while providing full transparency to your tenants and service contractors.
To learn more contact us at info@buildingassure.com