Energy-saving buildings recognized

Washington, DC— Energy Star status was conferred on more than 2,500 office buildings, schools, hospitals, and public buildings for superior energy and environmental performance in 2005 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The buildings, representing 482 million square feet, are saving an estimated $349 million annually in lower energy bills while meeting industry standards for comfort and indoor air quality. The buildings are preventing 1.8 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to emissions from 540,000 vehicles.

Commercial buildings account for more than 17 percent of our nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Energy Star-qualified buildings generally use up to 40 percent less energy than typical buildings. Building owners earn the Energy Star by scoring in the top 25 percent on EPA’s energy performance rating system. Scores are based on actual energy use.

Among the top performing buildings are 1,007 office buildings, 501 public schools and 834 grocery stores. More than 200 hotels, hospitals, medical offices, and other buildings also earned the Energy Star.

Food Lion leads the list as owner of the most Energy Star buildings. Top-performing buildings are found in every state in the nation and the District of Columbia. The most Energy Star buildings are located in California, Texas, North Carolina, Virginia, Colorado, and Ohio.