Electical Contractor

On top of the millions already infused through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) economic stimulus bill into various aspects of the war on climate change, more funds are forthcoming.

The whole world is going green. Businesses and consumers are implementing green strategies, and the color green is taking over marketing campaigns. Even petroleum companies are coming out with green media campaigns.

I attended a lecture recently where the guest speaker gave a detailed overview on building Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) projects, and I learned a surprising thing: It’s not only about the green materials used for the construction, but also how things are built.

In the drive for energy-efficient buildings, perfection is net-zero energy. Such tightly constructed buildings also produce their own energy, ultimately offsetting the energy they expend. Some produce more than they use and can sell the excess back to the utility.

According to the U.S. Environmental Agency (EPA), green building, also known as sustainable or high-performance building, is the practice of creating structure and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout the building’s life cycle.

As noted in a special focus article in last month's issue of Construction Today, there are three major areas where electrical contractors have the experience and skills to help owners, building managers and occupants achieve their green goals for a construction project: Leadership in Energy and Envi