Would Arnie Have Applauded? | Green Energy News

November 2, 2003 – Vol.8 No.32

WOULD ARNIE HAVE APPLAUDED?

The California Energy Commission, in a 3-0 vote and a round of applause from the audience, has decided to update energy efficiency standards for new and remodeled buildings in the state. The new rules, to go into effect in 2005, will cut the State’s peak energy consumption by 180 megawatts in the first year. The updates have been supported by utilities and industries that will benefit from the new rules, such as energy-efficient window manufacturers.

When building or remodeling, new rules require...

-- that cool roofs (light reflective, highly insulated) be installed on non-residential buildings.

-- that controls be installed in non-residential buildings to shut off lights when enough natural light, such as from skylights, is available.

-- that state-of-the-art fluorescent lighting be used in all permanent fixtures in residential and non-residential buildings.

-- that outside lighting and signage meet energy efficiency standards.

-- that new and replacement windows be energy efficient.

-- that new and replaced ductwork be inspected for efficiency and sealed as necessary.

Had soon-to-be-sworn-in Arnie been in the audience he probably would have been compelled to applaud. He has apparently chosen a well-regarded environmental activist, Terry Tamminen, to head the state’s Environmental Protection Agency.

Visit the California Energy Commission at http://www.energy.ca.gov/ (click Title 24 Energy Efficiency Building Standards).