Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency involves a set of strategies that can be used to reduce the consumption of energy—especially fossil-fuel energy—in buildings. These strategies include:
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monitoring energy use
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improving building commissioning
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applying insights from building science
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selecting innovative HVAC and building envelope technology
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using natural ventilation and daylighting to provide low-cost alternatives to standard systems
Energy Efficiency
Deep Dives
Get up to speed on complex topics. You can also earn CEUs and download PDF Spotlight Reports.
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When Passive House Goes Big
Feature Article
More projects are proving Passive House is achievable for large urban buildings. The lessons learned along the way can help guide cities to a low-energy, resilient future.
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Why Schools Are Embracing Net-Zero Energy
Feature Article
Schools are leading the way in net-zero energy, but some designers question whether these goals create the best learning environments.
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20 Ways to Advance Sustainability in the Next Four Years
Feature Article
In this age of political revolution and environmental urgency, it’s time to step back and take a look at priorities, challenges, and opportunities
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Mouth, Meet Money: Case Studies of Outcome-Based Design
Feature Article
Performance-based incentives are a growing (and positive) trend. They’re not as risky as they sound, but there are some steps you should be taking to prepare.
Quick Takes
Jump straight to the essentials with these short explanations of green building concepts.
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How Air-Source Heat Pumps Work
Primer
Heating with cold air? Cooling off with hot air? Heat pumps performing these feats (especially mini-splits and VRF systems) have taken off, but how do they work?
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Choosing Between an ERV and an HRV
Primer
Don't get fooled into buying a more expensive and complex system if what you really need is a dehumidifier.
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How Active Dehumidification Works
Primer
Whether you choose a refrigerant-based or a desiccant-based system, dehumidifiers use energy and produce waste heat.
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Post-Occupancy Evaluations: Ignorance Isn't Bliss
Primer
POEs tell you everything you ever wanted to know about your buildings. Don't be afraid to ask.
Product Guidance
Unbiased information from our product experts helps you separate green from greenwash.
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Fiberglass, XPS, Cork? Insulation Options for LEED v4 and Living Buildings
Product Review
Choosing insulation with an eye to points in LEED v4 or Living Building Challenge compliance? Here’s how insulation materials compare.
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Façade as Ventilation: Moving beyond Open Windows
Product Review
AirFlow Panels supply air and recover energy on commercial building façades, improving air quality while reducing energy and space requirements.
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No More Condensation on Chilled Beams
Product Review
Semco’s Neuton pump module could simplify installation of chilled beams, eliminate condensation problems, and provide improved zone control.
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Top-Efficiency Washers and Dryers Come in from Turkey
Product Review
Blomberg and Beko ventless heat-pump dryers lead the pack in energy performance and also may cause less wear-and-tear on clothing.
In The News
We break news down to the essentials and provide expert analysis.
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AIA Declares Climate Emergency in Historic Resolution
News Brief
The AIA climate resolution calls for big changes in how the organization and its members will approach the climate crisis.
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New York City Mandates Carbon Limits for 50,000 Buildings
News Brief
NYC has a goal of 80% carbon reduction by 2050 and has set carbon emission limits for nearly all NYC buildings over 25,000 square feet.
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The Combined Effectiveness of Prefab, Wood, and Passive House
News Analysis
Recent projects have combined modular prefabrication, wood construction, and Passive House design to address sustainability goals.
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Energy Modeling the ASHRAE 209 Way: Throughout Design and Beyond
News Brief
ASHRAE 209 guides users through design-phase energy modeling.
Perspective
Thought-provoking opinions from the most trusted minds in sustainability.
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Why Standing Rock Matters to Green Building (and How You Can Help)
Op-Ed
The green building community must choose its battles carefully. And Standing Rock should be one of those battles.
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Net Zero Energy Is Achievable: Here’s How
Blog Post
The concept of the net zero energy (NZE) is a mature one, with established technology providing a clear path, especially for low- and mid-rise buildings.
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7 Tips to Get More from Mini-Split Heat Pumps in Colder Climates
Blog Post
Air-to-air heat pumps are getting more popular as a primary heat source in colder climates. Here’s how to get the most from your system.
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Drinking the Heat Pump Kool-Aid
Op-Ed
Reader Thomas McGrath questions the choice of heat pumps over other forms of space heating.
Learning Resources
A wide range of education options, with automatic reporting for AIA and GBCI.
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Lighting Design for Health and Sustainability: A Guide for Architects
Feature Article
A report providing architects guidance on how to design sustainable lighting that supports health and wellness while reducing energy use.
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Why Schools Are Embracing Net-Zero Energy
Feature Article
Schools are leading the way in net-zero energy, but some designers question whether these goals create the best learning environments.
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Design Strategies for Occupant Engagement—and Why They Boost Performance
Feature Article
Researchers reveal simple ways to empower occupants to reduce energy, water, and waste. It all starts with good design.
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Are Cool Roofs Green? The Answer’s Not Black and White
Feature Article
Roofing choices are complicated by heating tradeoffs, climate effects, and condensation, but proponents say reflective roofs still make sense in most climates.
Just For Fun
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