Federal Agencies Face Energy Challenge

Tuesday, March 1, 2005

Facts & Tips from the U.S. Department of Energy Federal Agencies Face Energy Challenge (NAPSA)—Faced with rising energy costs, many homeowners are taking a closer look at ways they can save energy. Rising energy prices also pose a challenge for the federal govern- ment. For instance, an increase of $1 per million Btu in natural gas prices increases energy costs to the government by an estimated $130 million. To help federal agencies meet this challenge, a program of the Department of Energy called the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) promotes the efficient use of energy resources at federal facilities through targeted energy efficiency measures and recognizing the efforts of federal energy champions. This winter, FEMPis deploying teams of energy-savings experts to conduct energy assessments at federal facilities as part of a broad strategy to reduce natural gas consumption and improve energy efficiency at these facilities. The assessments provide opportunities for federal facilities to significantly reduce energy use and to cut energy costs. It’s expected that 30 such assessments will be conducted during fiscal year 2006. Someof the simpler energy-conservation recommendations made by the expert teams might also be helpful for consumers. For example: Check boiler/furnace combustion efficiency. Survey steam distribution systems and steam traps for properoperation. Check that hot water or steam piping and system compo- nent insulation is in good repair. Check outside air intake dampers for proper operation. The federal governmentis hitting the mark with energy efficiency. Its buildings have had an estimated reduction in energy use of almost 26 percent since 1985. Switch off all unnecessary lights and use natural lighting whenpossible. Unplug equipment that can drain energy even when not in use, such as cell phone chargers, coffeemakersor portable stereos. Replace furnace filters and clean heating andcoolingcoils. Install a water-heater tank insulating jacket and lower water temperature consistent with hygiene requirements. Recently, FEMP honored with awards the efforts of 20 federal government employees, teams and organizations to increase energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy. These awardees saved more than $14 million in energy costs last year through their energy-efficiency improvements and innovative strategies. The federal governmentestimates that it has reduced the energy intensity (energy per square foot) of its buildings by almost 26 percent since 1985. To learn more, visit the Web site at www.eere.energy.gov/femp.

--- PHOTOS ---

File: 20190731-171528-20190731-171525-66975.pdf.jpg

--- FILES ---

File: 20190731-171525-66975.pdf