Almost 2000 of the nation’s most energy efficient buildings have earned EPA’s ENERGY STAR rating, saving an estimated $200 million annually and reducing approximately six billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to the emissions of 500,000 cars. The buildings qualifying as ENERGY STAR use about 40 percent less energy without compromising comfort or services.

Seventy-one buildings meet the ENERGY STAR standards in Pennsylvania.

Currently 1,964 buildings nationwide qualify for the ENERGY STAR, representing nearly 400 million square feet. ENERGY STAR buildings protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and using energy more efficiently.

In 2004, more than 700 buildings received the ENERGY STAR label, the largest increase since the program began. More than 50 percent of the buildings joining the program were supermarkets or grocery stores.

Buildings earn the ENERGY STAR by scoring a 75 or higher on EPA’s 100-point national energy rating scale. The average of all buildings qualifying for ENERGY STAR through 2004 is 84. These buildings must also meet industry standards for comfort and indoor air quality, as verified by a professional engineer.

For more information visit the ENERGY STAR webpage or call 1-888-STAR-YES.

1/28/2005