PA Environment Digest

Gov. Rendell this week again called on the General Assembly to adopt a green building code to promote energy conservation and green building practices that will stimulatethe economy and help curb emissions of greenhouse gases.

The Governor was the keynote speaker at the PA Green Growth Partnership's third annual conference, BuildGreen 2009, in Philadelphia.

“When I called for a state Green Building Code in February, I said that we need to push the envelope on conservation if we are going to become energy independent and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Gov. Rendell said. “We need to be doing everything we can to encourage energy conservation and efficiency, as well as promote the increased use of alternative and renewable fuels across Pennsylvania. Making these investments now is even more crucial if we are to continue developing clean energy resources and growing the Keystone State’s green energy manufacturing industry.”

The Governor’s proposed High-Performance, State-Funded Buildings Standards Act passed the House of Representatives by an overwhelming majority in July, and awaits the consideration of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. (9/20/09 PA Environment Digest)

“Buildings that comply with the Act will see at least a 30 percent reduction in annual utility costs at all of these buildings,” he said. “Because many of the buildings that will fall under the Act are public buildings, this represents a big savings for taxpayers.”

The Governor also noted some of the indirect economic benefits of green buildings, such as reduced sick time for employees and improved test results for students working in better lighting. Stores with more natural lighting saw higher sales than those without, he said.

“Investments in green buildings will position us to capitalize on increased demand once the economy improves by leading to billions of dollars in new economic investment for our communities and tens of thousands of new jobs,” he said. “By reducing demand for electricity through energy efficiency and conservation, and by increasing the supply of clean energy, Pennsylvania will be able to help hold down the market prices for electricity. I’m committed to supporting growth and innovation in the green building industry that actively promotes energy conservation, efficiency, a cleaner environment, and a stronger economy.”

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