DOE & NREL Recommendations for Large Buildings & Hospitals to Save Energy-

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and its National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) recently published two reports which offer valuable recommendations toward cutting energy consumption by as much as 50 percent in large offices and hospitals. Technical Support Document: Strategies for 50% Energy Savings in Large Office Buildings reports that a 50 percent energy savings can be achieved in both low-rise and high-rise office buildings in an extensive range of U.S. climates. Research was performed in 16 cities that represented different climate zones, such as hot and humid, hot and dry, marine, cold and humid, and cold and dry. In order to reach the 50 percent energy-savings target, researchers simply reduced lighting power density in office spaces and utilized occupancy sensors throughout infrequently occupied spaces; installed high-efficiency boilers, chillers, air distribution units, and service water heating equipment; and reduced plug loads by purchasing high-efficiency electronic equipment which shut off when not in use. Large Hospital 50% Energy Savings: Technical Support Document reports the technical research conducted and the resulting design instructions that will help large hospitals reap energy savings of at least 50 percent above the standard. As with large office buildings, the report found that 50 percent energy savings can be achieved in large hospitals spanning all eight U.S. climate zones. Energy savings range from 50.6% to 61.3%, with the smallest savings in humid climates and extremely cold climates. In addition to both reports, the DOE has released documents in the following categories of commercial buildings:

50% Energy Savings:

• General Merchandise
• Highway Lodging
• Medium Box Retail
• Medium Office

30% Energy Savings:

• Highway Lodging
• K–12 Schools
• Small Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
• Small Office
• Small Retail
• Small Warehouse

For more information on both reports, please visit www.nrel.gov/.