6 Top Benefits of Energy-Efficient Designs
Global warming and ozone depletion have become hot topics worldwide—and the best way to combat these pressing issues is to go green!
Urbanization has put forth various social and economic challenges, among which have a high cost of living, population congestion, and energy inefficiency, but when trying to find a solution to these problems, energy conservationists often forget a major root cause of climate change—inefficient building design.
A new WRI study examined the positive role of building design in shaping the future of sustainability and environmental stability. Here are six of the benefits it mentioned:
1. Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions
A new report suggests that the US can cut down 50% of its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030—how? -By local businesses and communities aggressively pursuing energy-efficient designs and conservation practices across the board.
2. Lower Levels of Heat Loss
Energy-efficient buildings are equipped with PU or other types of energy insulation systems. Moreover, the heating, cooling, and plumbing systems are compliant with local building laws and EPA guidelines, which enhances their energy performance by reducing heat loss.
3. Decreases Air Pollution
Green designs don’t just improve a building’s indoor air quality; they also help curb air pollution. ‘Green’ buildings offer better ventilation and also reduce the amount of harmful gases produced during fossil combustion.
4. Helps You Qualify for Special Incentives & Rebates
According to energy.gov, green builders can qualify for special incentives provided by the US government, meaning they can provide financial assistance for developing energy-efficient residential and commercial building designs.
This program offers federal, state, and local level incentives that include tax credits, rebates, and savings platforms for green buildings.
5. Generates higher ROI
The US construction sector accounts for 10% of the total GDP and is likely to grow by 25% in the next decade. green building designs open up new financing opportunities because these buildings last longer than traditional designs and can help you save money for other investments.
6. Reduces Electricity Demand
Energy-efficient buildings require less energy to operate, therefore, they majorly reduce electricity consumption, which reduces the carbon footprint as well as energy costs.
Moreover, these efficiency improvements have low to no upfront costs and provide excellent ROI. Read this EPA guide on utilizing local opportunities for improving energy efficiency.
Looking for a Certified Municipal Engineering Services Firm in Rochester, NY?
With over 65 years of experience, Larsen Engineers enable businesses and communities across NY to adopt sustainable and climate conscious energy conservation practices. Their wide range of services include solar energy consulting, community energy planning, construction phase engineering, sustainable site planning, among many others.
They also participated in the Conscious Capitalism webinar where Ram Shrivastava shared his views with local community organizations that served poor neighborhoods.
