|
|
Home > Energy Efficiency Tips & Tools > Commercial Buildings > Search
New Buildings
Starting new? Consider two key areas to maximize energy efficiency
A new building or addition means you have a fresh chance to maximize energy
efficiency. The two main areas you should consider are:
- Economical energy efficient system designs
- The building's envelope and its orientation
Design and select your systems wisely. Efficient systems could help you
keep energy bills about 30 - 50% lower than standard systems. Also, consider
orienting your building so that it is shielded from prevailing winds and
can take advantage of winter sunshine.
Lighting
| Check your plans for these: |
- Daylight sensors in perimeter lighting
- Adequate number of individual light switches for control flexibility
- Efficient light fixtures and lamps appropriate for your needs
- Energy efficient ballasts; few if any incandescents
- Timers or photoelectric controls for indoor/outdoor lighting
- Occupancy sensors
- High pressure sodium parking lot lights
- Efficient exit signs
|
| Building envelope |
- Efficient glazing for reduced heat gain and increased daylight
penetration
- Thermal windows
- Windows that can be opened if appropriate
- Window details for caulking and weatherstripping
- Overhangs or adjustable shades, blinds, or reflective film to
reduce heat gain from sun
- Superior insulation for roofs and walls
- Light surface colours, both indoors and outdoors
- Landscaping to shield building from winds
- Entrance vestibules with revolving or double sets of doors
|
| Hot water |
- Energy efficient hot water system
- Hot water tank near main point of use
- Hot water pipes insulated
- Low flow showerheads, energy efficient faucet controls
|
| HVAC |
- An efficient HVAC system, with adequate zoning
- Efficient HVAC control design for all zones
- Use of heat pumps, if appropriate
- Multi-storey building design with economizers and heat reclaimer
for HVAC economy
- HVAC pipes or ducts insulated
- Diffuser with fully adjustable vents
- Proper sizing of heating, ventilating, air conditioning equipment
- Programmable thermostats
- Exhaust fans in rest rooms wired in tandem with lights (or as
per local codes)
- Adequate wiring to permit area heaters for remote locations
- Cool storage system to reduce peak loads
- Solar space and/or water heating, if appropriate
- Energy efficient machines and equipment
- An EMS (energy management system) for optimum energy control
|
back to top
|
|
