This week, the Environmental Protection Agency released the sixth annual list of Top 25 US Metropolitan Areas with the most Energy Star buildings. Energy Star is an EPA program that encourages businesses and homeowners to be more energy efficient, save money, and reduce their carbon footprint.According to the EPA: "Energy use in commercial buildings accounts for 17 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions at a cost of more than $100 billion per year. Energy Star certified office buildings cost $0.50 less per square foot to operate than average office buildings, and use nearly two times less energy per square foot than average office buildings."
Products, residential homes, and commercial buildings are reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and improving their energy efficiency through the Energy Star program. They must pass specific requirements in order to achieve the rating. Energy Star buildings use 35% less energy on average and contribute 35% less carbon dioxide emissions than other buildings. Currently, Energy Star commercial buildings must perform in the top 25% of other similar buildings. Not only do individuals and businesses help the environment, but they are also saving a significant amount of money. Energy Star has helped individuals and businesses save over $30 million within the past year--money that would have powered wasteful electricity and greenhouse gas emissions.
Various types of buildings can earn Energy Star ratings, including residential homes, office buildings, schools, hotels, and stores. They are reducing pollution, cutting costs, and increasing the efficiency of their buildings, all while helping the environment.
The 2014 Energy Star Top Cities are:
1. Los Angeles
2. Washington, DC
3. Atlanta
4. New York
5. San Francisco
6. Chicago
7. Dallas-Fort Worth
8. Denver
9. Philadelphia
10. Houston
11. Charlotte
12. Phoenix
13. Boston
14. Seattle
15. San Diego
16. Minneapolis-St. Paul
17. Sacramento
18. Miami
19. Cincinnati
20. San Jose
21. Columbus, OH
22. Riverside, CA
23. Detroit
24. Portland, OR
25. Louisville
Want to become involved with Energy Star and energy efficiency? Sign up for an energy efficiency course with GreenEDU! We offer a variety of energy courses throughout the nation, from building analyst and inspection to infrared and thermography training!
Click here to view the various energy efficiency courses offered by GreenEDU and sign up now!