Energy and Construction - Clima2007

Jesse Said:

What are some ideas on cost effectiveness and reducing energy consumption in large establishments? ?

We Answered:

The biggest costs for large buildings is usually climate control. Many large buildings have windows that don't open. Remodleing to allow use of natural heat and cooling can save a lot of money. Not all windows should be the same. Awnings on south facing windows stops the summer heat but allows the lower winter sun to warm the rooms. Many offices leave computers and other machines on all night. All unneccessary equipment should be shut down and battery back ups should be shut off, you don't need to charge a full battery. Consolidate printers. It is much better to have a highly used printer than dozen of printers that are only used a few times per day. Go paperless when possible. Many financial records are still kept as hard copies, look for ways to store information electronically. Use email and internet for communications, put forms online and allow them to be shared electronically. Recycle everything, it will reduce the garbage bill and possibly make the company money. Get rid of disposable items. In the lunch room encourage employees to bring their own coffee cups or water bottles and have filtered tap water instead of bottled water.

Allison Said:

Solar energy; cost, efficiency, plausibility?

We Answered:

If you intend to power your entire household using a commercial energy system, it can easily set you back by $30000 to $50000 as a ballpark figure. You'd have to talk to the gov't about selling it. You'd prolly need a lot of permits and then the government would basically own your land.

Willie Said:

information on small business grants for energy efficiency?

We Answered:

your query is too vague. Are you seeking a grant to set up a biz or to add energy eff to a building
you occpy?

Carl Said:

How are these proposals to help solve global warming socialistic or harmful to middle class or business?

We Answered:

Congress is looking at this? Wow, maybe my letters were read. Don't see my bicycle highway idea on it but hey, baby steps.

Of all of these the biggest problem I would see federal buildings becoming green. That is a bit ambiguous because what I consider green might not be what you consider green. Some say recycle where others will say recycling requires more energy to do so is harmful. The ensuing arguments and changing to meet what is considered green can lead to wasteful spending of tax dollars.

I think the government should drop the green label and use energy efficient or non-polluting. These terms more people can get behind.

Leon Said:

How do I to get people in town to check out my website?(www. Thomas and sons home efficiency.com)?

We Answered:

Put ads online and in local papers instead of in Yahoo Answers.