Feb 14 2008
The Alliance Center, owned and managed by the Alliance for Sustainable Colorado, has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) prestigious Energy Star, the national symbol for superior energy efficiency and environmental protection. Commercial buildings and industrial plants that rate in the top 25 percent of facilities in the nation for energy efficiency may qualify for the Energy Star.
"We are thrilled to accept EPA's Energy Star in recognition of our energy efficiency efforts," said Jeanne Beaudry, executive director of the Alliance for Sustainable Colorado. "Through this achievement, we have demonstrated our commitment to environmental stewardship while also lowering our energy costs."
The Alliance Center is a "Multi-Tenant Nonprofit Center" that provides office and meeting space to 30 nonprofit organizations. The Alliance Center houses groups that advocate for development of policies and implementation of practices of sustainability.
An historic building built in 1908; The Alliance Center is an example of preservation and conservation that maintains historic integrity while adding "green" features. Under the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED (Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design) program, The Alliance Center is one of only two buildings to earn two certifications: Existing Building (EB) Gold and Commercial Interiors (CI) Silver.
After energy efficiency, the Alliance Center saw significant performance improvements, reducing CO2 emissions by 80,000 pounds per year and cutting energy costs by 12 cents per square foot. "This is positive proof that energy efficiency is all about saving money and saving the environment," said Ms. Beaudry.
Buildings that earn the Energy Star use an average of 35 percent less energy than typical buildings and also release 35 percent less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. According to the EPA, the Alliance Center energy bills are 39% less than the industry average. The Alliance for Sustainable Colorado took several steps to cut its energy use including halving its energy use from lighting by using new T-8 lamps, high efficiency electronic and daylight-harvesting ballasts, as well as light sensors and motion detectors. In addition, a new energy efficiency management system segments energy use by time of day and specific location, further helping to trim electrical consumption.
"Whether you are running a grocery store, a school, or an office building, getting the most out of your energy dollars - while reducing your carbon footprint - just makes sense," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson.