The lack of energy efficiency in commercial buildings stems from the low priority placed on energy use by owners and operators, whose primary concern is occupant comfort. Office buildings are the single largest energy user in California's commercial sector and play a major role in efforts to increase energy efficiency. The buildings sector uses approximately 66% of the electric energy in the United States.

Energy represents as much as 30 percent of a building's operating costs.  Implementation of energy efficiency measures can reduce energy consumption - and thus, utility bills - by 30 percent or more. These savings add directly to your bottom line.  A 30 percent reduction in energy consumption can lower operating costs on average, by $25,000 per year for every 50,000 square feet of office space. The best part is that these improvements to energy efficiency can often be attained through no-cost or low-cost projects that also improve the comfort and attractiveness of the indoor environment.

Key energy investment strategies for commercial buildings:

• Increase the efficiency of technology and equipment.
• Improve the design and efficiency of the overall building system.
• Introduce energy management and controls.
• Introduce efficiencies in building maintenance.

To optimize building performance and reap additional savings, install an enhanced automated control system along with compatible control equipment on building mechanical, lighting and electrical systems. Take a systems approach.  Consider hiring an energy consultant such as California Diamond Energy Solutions Inc. to do this analysis for you.