The proponents of “green” or sustainably built buildings and spaces are quick to promote their benefits. Yet they almost never provide factual measured data to support the claims. Before publishing stories about these buildings, editors should require the following facts to be printed.

If the facility has been operating for at least one year, articles should include monthly metered energy consumption data for 12 consecutive months. If it’s been operating for less than one year, metered energy consumption data for 12 consecutive months should be given within two years. A simple table of the factual metered data, along with the size in square metres, should suffice. The article should also clearly identify any rebates, subsidies, or unique circumstances that might limit broad transferability of the technologies involved.

If the data are not provided after two years, editors should flag this up. Data should cover all energy sources, including HVAC and hot water.

Eur Ing Larry Spielvogel, PE, CEng, FASHRAE, FCIBSE, FSLL, Pittsburgh, United States

Source

Building Sustainable Design