Thanks to advancements in building science, technology and operations, there are now no longer any technical barriers, and few financial ones, to prevent you from achieving high energy efficiency in your next construction project.
Today, high-performance buildings cost little more to build — and may even cost less — than traditional alternatives, thanks in part to resource-efficient strategies and integrated designs that enable you to downsize costly mechanical, electrical and structural systems.
High-performance buildings also cost less to operate. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, total energy costs for such buildings are, on average, about 50 percent less than for conventionally designed buildings. The Environmental Protection Agency reports that ENERGY STAR®-labeled office buildings cost about $0.86 per square foot per year – 40 percent less than the average office building.
Why build a high-performance building?
- Reduce maintenance, operating and capital costs.
- Enhance asset value and profits.
- Improve employee productivity, health and satisfaction.
- Minimize strain on local infrastructure.
- Improve air and water quality.
- Reduce liability.
- Enhance building and organizational marketability.
- Earn eligibility for federal, state and local tax credits and incentives.
- Reduce pollution from building operations.
- Reduce greenhouse gas production.
- Conserve raw building materials.