Conservation, Efficiency and
Environmental Protection

Energy Efficiency Standards

• Energy Star:  The EPA and DOE's Energy Star labeling program is an example of a successful government program that both educates the public and encourages manufacturers to produce energy efficient products. Under this voluntary program, manufacturers are allowed to display the Energy Star logo on products that meet energy efficiency guidelines.

• Green Buildings:  Commercial buildings account for 18% of total U.S. energy consumption and contribute an estimated 15% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Energy consumption represents 30% of a typical commercial office building's operating costs. The EPA estimates that the 2,500 buildings that have earned the ENERGY STAR label for energy efficiency through 2005 have saved a combined $350 million on their energy bills. The New Buildings Institute, which aims to reduce energy needs of commercial buildings, has proposed an "E-Benchmark" that could reduce consumption by 30 to 50 % while being cost effective. In addition, there are a number of green building rating systems that provide "green building" standards. The most prominent is the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Other programs include Green Globes, administered by the Green Building Initiative, and the Federal Sustainable Buildings Principles.

• Tax Credits: The Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006provides certain tax deductions for energy-efficient commercial buildings. In addition, it provides a credit to an eligible contractor for the construction of new energy-efficient homes that meets certain qualifications.