Home

Ask The Pink Panther™ your energy questions Search the blog

March 07, 2008

Envision your home more energy efficient

If you want help selecting insulation and making your new home more energy efficient, consider visiting a builder who uses Envision software to help buyers understand and select options for their new homes. Envision is an integrated options management solution developed by New Home Technologies, a consortium representing 36 of the nation's largest homebuilders and 13 leading manufacturers - including my blog sponsor Owens Corning - who sell products to builders. The software has already won awards for Best Virtual Design Center and Best Virtual Design Center Implementation. For more about Envision, visit Builder Homesite and New Home Technologies online. To see a list of builders who use the software in their design centers, click here.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy Efficiency Tips , Energy News at 11:30 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

February 17, 2008

Radio feature says make sure you have enough insulation

Don't be surprised if you hear energy-saving Owens Corning insulation products on the radio in the near future. Company representatives were interviewed at the International Builders' Show this week by Money Pit co-hosts Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete.

One of The Money Pit''s messages to viewers: Enhancements to your home should pay attention to the basics, such as making sure you have enough insulation. The first step in doing so is to take a peek in your attic. If you can see the wood beams on the floor, chances are good that you need more insulation.

There are an estimated 60 million American homes that have under-insulated attics and not only face energy costs up to 47 percent higher this winter(1), they're also emitting a half ton more CO2 EVERY year than their properly-insulated neighbors. Released into the atmosphere, that's about an average blimp-full of CO2 emissions being released per block of homes each year.(2)

With the U.S. Department of Energy recommending an average of R-value 49 for attics in many parts of the country, Owens Corning advises that an attic have a minimum of 15-1/2 inches of fiberglass batt insulation or 18 inches of blown insulation. For more information about attic insulation visit the Owens Corning micro-site www.insulateyouratticnow.com.

(1)U.S. Dept of Energy (DOE)

(2)The US could save up to three million blimps full of CO2 emissions (the average blimp holds approximately 200,000 cubic feet of gas) if all under insulated attics in the US were insulated to the DOE standard. Estimated 60 million under-insulated homes in 2006 based upon a 2003 Harvard School of Public Health study, The Public Health Benefits of Insulation Retrofits in Existing Housing in the United States.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News at 12:44 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

February 16, 2008

Owens Corning shows proven insulation products at IBS

The International Builders' Show continues through today in Orlando. My blog sponsor is there with energy saving products for the home. Builders and contractors attend the show each year to see what is new in the field of home construction. Owens Corning is there to remind them that proven products are sometimes the best solution for the challenges of today. With more than 65 years of leadership, Owens Corning continues to provide insulation systems to keep homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer. PINK insulation products help keep families comfortable and take the "high" out of energy bills. There is sometimes a knee-jerk reaction to assume that traditional products are not as good a something new. People naturally like new things and all of a sudden they can become 'in vogue' and sexy. Traditional products are assumed by default to be not as innovative or at the cutting edge as the newer products. But buyers need to look deeper. Just because it is new doesn't mean that it's right or the best option available. Fiberglass insulation doesn't absorb moisture or need special chemical treatments to make it fire safe. And typically, old fiberglass insulation does not stop working. In fact, Owens Corning recently tested some Fiberglas ™ insulation that had been in a home more than 50 years and found that it still meets today's performance specifications for the product. And from my perspective, one of the best things about Owens Corning insulation products is the fact that they are PINK.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News at 10:19 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

February 14, 2008

It's Green Day at the International Builders' Show

In recognition of the phenomenal growth of green building, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) will celebrate "Green Day" today at the International Builders' Show in Orlando.

The association will officially launch the NAHB National Green Building Program and unveil the new Certified Green Professional™ educational designation for home builders, remodelers and other industry professionals.

A green building display will allow participants to try out a new online scoring tool which is an important component of the NAHB National Green Building Program. The scoring tool shows how green building techniques and materials will affect a new home and allows builders and consumers to select the measures and materials that are most cost effective and best meet their needs. Builders can also test the tool at www.nahbgreen.org.

Also on the docket: a full day of green educational seminars on topics from market trends and consumer research to innovative design and new products. Information about the 10th annual NAHB National Green Building Conference will also be available. Noted green architect and educator William McDonough is the featured speaker in the morning, and he will also conduct an in-depth session on "Cradle to Cradle" environmentally and ecologically efficient building practices.

NAHB will also introduce the Certified Green Professional designation, a new professional program to provide home buyers with additional assurance that the builder or remodeler they've chosen is authentically "green."

Among the green products on display at IBS is PINK Fiberglas™ insulation, the market leading residential insulation product. Owens Corning insulation products save many times the energy used to make it in the first year alone. And they continue to help conserve energy year after year without consuming any additional resources. The products Owens Corning sells each year are responsible for the prevention of more than 1 billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions. (1) This equals the emissions of 200 million passenger cars or the use of 2 billion barrels of oil. Owens Corning was the first insulation manufacturer to qualify for the GREENGUARD Product Emission Standard for Children and Schools - the only independent testing program for low-emitting products. Owens Corning Fiberglas insulation is made of plentiful sand and recycled glass. Its minimum of 35% recycled content is the highest in the industry. Owens Corning Fiberglas insulation products can also assist in attaining points for LEED® Certification. Go Green! Go PINK!

(1)The US could save up to three million blimps full of CO2 emissions (the average blimp holds approximately 200,000 cubic feet of gas) if all under insulated attics in the US were insulated to the DOE standard. Estimated 60 million under-insulated homes in 2006 based upon a 2003 Harvard School of Public Health study, The Public Health Benefits of Insulation Retrofits in Existing Housing in the United States.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News at 08:29 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

February 13, 2008

Owens Corning insulation featured in technology home

At the International Builders' Show in Orlando today, three Owens Corning products are showing builders how they can differentiate their homes and appeal to today's home buyers. PINK Fiberglas™ insulation is there to show how homes can stand out with energy efficiency and quiet. The other Owens Corning products featured at the show are Duration™ Series shingles with SureNail® technology, and Cultured Stone® manufactured stone veneer. All three Owens Corning products are part of the High Tech Home in the Show Village. The home is designed to deliver fine city living for high-end homeowners. From the latest lighting controls to the most exciting media rooms to the choicest luxury finishes, this house will excite and challenge builders to deliver their best. Other high-tech products in the home include Panasonic ventilation systems, Electrolux premium kitchen appliances and LiteTouch lighting controls.

High-end homeowners also want energy efficiency, of course, and my blog sponsor is there to show builders how fiberglass insulation can be an essential part of a home’s comfort system. While I may be biased, I believe PINK insulation is the best choice for a home. The products are available as Fiberglas™ batts and blowing wool, and FOAMULAR® extruded polystyrene foam insulation. PINK insulating products are affordable and readily available. They also pay for themselves quickly by reducing home heating and cooling costs. A typical pound of insulation saves 12 times as much energy in its first year in place as the energy used to produce it. This means the energy consumed during manufacturing is saved during the first 4 to 5 weeks of the product’s use. The insulation continues to save this amount of energy every month throughout the life of the home in which it is installed.

A highlight at the home tomorrow will be a radio broadcast of The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show from 9 a.m. to 11a.m. on the front porch. Owens Corning representatives will be interviewed during that time by broadcast personalities and authors Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete. The Money Pit is the nation's largest home improvement radio program and is heard on over 220 radio stations, as well as on XM Satellite Radio. The show will air February 23 through the 27 on radio stations nationwide.

For more about Owens Corning Fiberglas insulation, click here. For more about the Show Village at the International Builders' Show, click here.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News at 08:22 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

February 12, 2008

International Builders' Show opens tomorrow in Orlando

The International Builders' Show opens tomorrow in Orlando and my blog sponsor will be there with energy saving products. The company's PINK Fiberglas™ insulation will be part of the Tech Home in the Professional Builder's Show Village, one of three full-size houses built to showcase products in a home environment. Visitors are not likely to miss the home because it features Owens Corning shingles with a large diamond pattern. The entry way is also clad with Owens Corning Cultured Stone® manufactured stone veneer. I'm kind of bummed that the company didn't ask me to be there and help builders understand that Owens Corning makes it easier for them to meet the demands of today's home-buying customers. In a recent survey of registered voters, 90 percent(1) said they will pay up to $5,000 more for a more energy efficient home. No wonder; a properly insulated home can save up to 20 percent(2) on heating and cooling energy bills each year, helping buyers afford more home - or more Pink Panther™ movies.

Last year, the International Builders' Show attracted more than 100,000 attendees during four days of exhibits, seminars and other special presentations. There was 11 miles of aisles through two million square feet of gross exhibit space, enough to cover 35 football fields. More than 1,900 exhibitors displayed their housing products and services. This year's show includes a Green Day for the first time. I'll write more about that Thursday. If you want to check out the show on the Web, click here.

(1)Owens Corning Homeowner Survey 2006

(2)Savings will vary depending on your location and weather conditions. Calculations of energy savings based on a 1700 square foot, single story home, with base case insulation and air leakage levels equivalent to the average home built in 1965. Reference data sources include the U.S. Dept. of Commerce and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBL) "Energy Savers Program". A summary of the calculation details is available upon request.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News at 05:46 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 24, 2007

Senate passes new energy bill

The Senate passed a new energy bill Thursday that aims to boost the nation's use of renewable energy and promote energy efficiency. H.R. 6, the CLEAN Energy Act of 2007, focuses primarily on cars but if passed and signed by the President would also set new energy-efficiency standards for appliances and lighting. It also requires the federal government to speed up its adoption of more efficient lighting in public buildings. Supporters say the bill reflects a shift away from promoting fossil fuels to supporting other energy sources such wind and biomass to make electricity and ethanol to power cars and trucks. For more information about the new bill, check postings on Web sites hosted by NPR, The Arizona Republic and The Wall Street Journal, among others.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 11:31 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 10, 2007

Home Depot Pledges $100 Million for Energy-Efficient Housing

The Home Depot Foundation recently announced it will donate $100 million in a 10-year project to build 100,000 affordable, energy-efficient homes for working families. The Foundation said the project will support its efforts to make communities healthier and more stable.

The pledge will also support the planting and preservation of more than 3 million community trees over the next decade. For more information about the commitment, check the company's news release and articles by Greenwire reporter Katherine Boyle and Atlanta Business Chronicle reporter Joe Rauch.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 03:14 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

May 26, 2007

Audits Intended to Improve Energy Efficiency

NWI.com (The Northwest Indiana Times online) posted an article today about two local homes in the midst of energy makeovers.

With a CNN video crew present, Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) auditors visited the residences on Wednesday and gave owners ideas on how to save energy and dollars. According to the report, one home audited by ComEd last year reduced its energy use by 50 percent in the first four months of 2007 compared to the same period in 2006.

"We're trying to demonstrate to customers how much they can save on electrical bills by taking some energy efficiency steps," said ComEd spokesman John Dewey. "These homes become models for how much people can save."

The goal is to make improvements in energy efficiency that pay for themselves over time, said George Malek, ComEd manager of Energy Efficiency Services.

Some of the audited homes will be featured on www.comedcares.com and possibly CNN.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 03:05 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

October 27, 2006

Adding Insulation Can Help Sell Homes

As we see daily news reports of declining home sales, my blog sponsor yesterday released results of a survey that shows how homeowners can increase the odds of selling their home by improving its energy efficiency.

According to the survey, 96 percent of home buyers consider energy efficiency when buying a new home, and 71 percent want a home that reduces their overall impact on the environment. Adding insulation in the attic helps the home seller appeal to both of these criteria. A company news release about the survey includes support from Kirsten Kemp, host of The Learning Channel's Property Ladder, a television show about flipping homes. "Adding insulation to the attic is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways home owners can make their home more attractive to potential buyers," said Kemp.

Despite home buyer interest in energy-efficient homes, the survey revealed that 78 percent of home owners have added no insulation to their attic because they believe their home already has enough. However, 80 percent of homes built before 1980 are not insulated to government standards. In an effort to help educate consumers, Owens Corning created an energy microsite that addresses the question of insulation levels and energy efficiency in the home.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News , Online Energy Resources , Owens Corning at 09:23 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

September 06, 2006

Another builder adopts Energy Star standards

Energy Star standards continue to spread as builders increasingly adopt the energy-efficient features in their new homes. Evidence of this trend appeared in a recent edition of The Toronto Star, reporting how three Liza Homes communities in the Toronto area are offering the energy saving features as standard. The article, written by Toronto Star reporter Tracy Hanes, said "All homes now sold in Liza's Folkestone and Heritage Village in Whitby and Horizons in Oshawa, will be built to Energy Star standards." The article says Energy Star homes are 40 percent more energy efficient than similar homes those built to minimum Ontario standards. Energy-saving features on the Liza homes include low-E argon windows, upgraded insulation, heat recovery ventilators and taped ductwork seams. How soon will we reach the tipping point when such practices become so common they are no longer news?

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 10:19 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

September 01, 2006

Crazy idea reduces energy cost by 26 percent

I don't often write about energy efficiency in commercial buildings but there was a lovely article in The Washington Post last month about the experience of Gary J. Saulson, director of corporate real estate for PNC Financial Services Group Inc. Staff reporter Steven Mufson wrote that Saulson's associates thought he was crazy when he proposed turning a partly constructed operations center in Pittsburgh into a "green" building. The article said they aren't questioning his sanity now as the 647,000-square-foot steel, stone and curved glass structure spends $1.5 million a year on utilities -- 26 percent less per square foot than one of the bank's comparable standard buildings. Midcourse changes included the building's design, materials, lighting, and heating and cooling systems. Saulson is now overseeing the construction of new "green" PNC branches. The article talks about what other companies are doing as well. Let's hope it helps more businesses see the bottom-line benefits of energy efficiency.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News , Green Design at 08:44 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

August 29, 2006

Organizations Commit to Action Plan for Energy Efficiency

About a month ago I wrote that a big announcement was coming on the National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency. Well, it happened as predicted on July 31. More than 50 leading organizations joined together to develop the plan, which aims to help states and utilities overcome barriers that limit investment in energy efficiency. The action plan was developed with assistance from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and with the participation of electric and gas utilities, utility regulators, state agencies, large energy users, consumer advocates, energy service providers, and environmental and energy efficiency organizations. On the day of the announcement, 72 organizations in 33 states also announced commitments to increase their investments in energy efficiency. The plan builds upon best practices from successful energy efficiency programs already operating in many areas. It recommends recognizing energy efficiency as a high-priority energy resource; making a strong, long-term commitment to implementing cost-effective energy efficiency as a resource; broadly communicating the benefits of and opportunities for energy efficiency; promoting sufficient, timely and stable program funding to deliver energy efficiency where cost-effective; and modifying policies and rate making practices to encourage utilities to invest in energy efficiency. The action plan and other related documents on the EPA website.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy Activism , Energy News at 11:17 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

August 23, 2006

Financing to improve your home's energy efficiency

Financing may be available to help improve the energy efficiency of your home. According to a recent article on RealEstateJournal.com, a website affiliated with The Wall Street Journal, government agencies and private lenders are offering homeowners thousands of dollars in financing to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Long-term, low-interest mortgages and loans are aimed at efficiency-minded homeowners who want to cut their utility bills. (Are there homeowners who don't want to cut their utility bills?) Borrowers can often arrange 30-year loan periods and interest rates below 10 percent, says the article. If you find the perfect house but it has an ancient heating and cooling system and 20-year-old appliances, you may be able to add an additional $35,000 to your mortgage to improve the energy efficiency of the property using a Federal Housing Authority program. Information about the rehabilitation mortgage program is available on the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News , Online Energy Resources at 08:25 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

August 17, 2006

DOE releases energy-saving tool for manufacturers

The U.S. Department of Energy has distributed Save Energy Now CD-ROMs to 3,500 large industrial plant managers across the nation as part of an initiative to help cut excessive energy use at industrial facilities. The Save Energy Now CD contains a wealth of products and information tailored to help plant managers and engineers save on energy costs, with an emphasis on reducing natural gas consumption. DOE is also helping manufacturers by performing no-cost energy assessments of 200 large industrial facilities' energy systems. Results of the assessments will be shared as best practices. For information about Save Energy Now, go to DOE's Industrial Technologies Program Website. You can order the CD-ROM through the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Information Center.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News , Online Energy Resources at 07:46 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

August 15, 2006

Higher costs spur energy efficiency investments in Ukraine

A recent article in the International Herald Tribune reminds us that money still talks when it comes to energy efficiency. According to the report, some of the largest enterprises in Ukraine are now investing hundreds of millions of dollars on new equipment and other measures to save energy. For many years businesses there enjoyed subsidized prices for energy, giving them little incentive to reduce the use of energy resources. The change of heart comes after Gazprom, Russia's state-owned energy company, ended decades of subsidized natural gas prices for Ukraine by doubling the cost of its gas exports in January. The price is expected to rise further next year, probably to world market prices. Interesting article; check it out.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 07:26 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

August 09, 2006

Owens Corning first to meet new GREENGUARD standard

Although it is not "new" news, I haven't commented on it before so today I want to tell you that in March, a month before I started this Save Energy blog, the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute announced that Owens Corning was the first insulation manufacturer to qualify for their new GREENGUARD Product Emission Standard for Children and Schools. The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute developed the school certification in response to rising concern over illnesses such as asthma and respiratory illness that are sometimes associated with poor indoor air quality. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that half of U.S. schools have indoor air quality problems, which are blamed for reducing student's performance on mental tasks requiring concentration, calculation and memory. Owens Corning distributed a news release listing the products included in the certification.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News , Green Design , Owens Corning at 12:22 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

August 01, 2006

First half of 2006 is warmest on record for U.S.

At the halfway point, 2006 is shaping up to be the warmest year on record for the United States. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), preliminary data show the average January to June temperature for the 48 contiguous states was 51.8 degrees Fahrenheit, which is 3.4 degrees F above average during the 20th Century. The heat is taxing electrical power systems while a continuing drought is depleting hydropower resources. The year is also shaping up to be the sixth warmest on record for the globe, with January to June average temperatures at 0.9 degrees F above the 20th-Century mean. For more information see the press release and analysis from NOAA's National Climatic Data Center. And if you didn't noticed, July was pretty warm as well with a heat wave setting records across much of the country. For information about July, see the press releases from the Long Island Power Authority and the California Independent System Operator. Throw on another blanket of PINK FIBERGLAS insulation!

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 06:54 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

July 31, 2006

Action Plan for Energy Efficiency Due Today

According to an article in the San Francisco Chronicle, the "next big idea" to help meet U.S. energy challenges will be unveiled today in San Francisco. California seems like an appropriate place for the launch, given that state's record heat wave and power alerts. The National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency has brought together an unlikely group -- utilities, government officials, environmentalists and consumer advocates, among others. The strategy is spearheaded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy to help reduce peak-energy demand and to put American consumers on a true energy-independence track. Look for more on this topic in the news today.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 12:25 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

July 26, 2006

Harvard wants to save energy

A recent report said Harvard wants to save energy and fit into the neighborhood. Posted by Town Online, the report by staff writer Meghann Ackerman said architect Stefan Behnisch met with the Harvard Allston Task Force to outline some of the concepts he wants to include as the university expands into the Allston neighborhood. Behnisch said wind and sunlight patterns will be considered in the design of the buildings to reduce energy usage. "These are going to be large buildings, so cutting down on energy by 30 percent would be a lot," he told Ackerman. Pumping air into the building from tubes under the building can naturally cool offices and labs by 15 degrees, Behnisch continued. I hope he will also include lots of PINK insulation.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 08:49 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

July 18, 2006

Homeowners wasting money on energy costs

A new survey by Owens Corning finds that Americans have a low Energy Quotient (EQ) which the company defines as knowledge of energy-saving practices in the home. According to the survey, 63 percent of homeowners are unaware of the financial benefits of installing insulation in the home, a fact that could be costing them $570 annually. The savings are the dollar equivalent of an estimated 30 percent savings attainable by properly insulating the average American home. In a surprising twist, the survey found that respondents below the age of 30 are less knowledgeable than other age groups on how to make their homes more energy efficient. Only 19 percent of young respondents understand how R-value -- an insulation product's ability to block heat from entering or escaping the home -- impacts home energy efficiency. What's more, 42 percent of homeowners under the age of 30 have no idea how much insulation is in their attic. Lack of knowledge about these basic energy efficiency elements speaks to the fact that those respondents are too young to have experienced the last major energy crisis. To read the company's news release about the survey, click here.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy Efficiency Tips , Energy News , Owens Corning at 10:18 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

July 14, 2006

Nebraska receives $2.5 million to improve energy efficiency

According to an item in Southwest Nebraska News, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) awarded Nebraska $2,586,397 to improve the energy efficiency of low-income households. The DOE's Weatherization Assistance Program provides energy audits to identify the most cost-effective measures for each home, including adding insulation, reducing air infiltration and servicing heating and cooling systems. On average, weatherization reduces a home's energy cost by $358 each year. The report said low-income families spend an average of 14 percent of their income on energy bills.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 08:19 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

July 11, 2006

Ontario sets high energy efficiency standards

New homes in Ontario will have to meet the highest energy-efficiency standards in Canada under new building-code provisions that require improvements in insulation levels, windows and furnace efficiency. The requirements will become effective in stages between now and the end of 2011. According to a report in the Globe and Mail, when fully implemented, the changes will increase the cost of a typical 2,000-square-foot gas-heated home in the Toronto area by up to $6,600, while cutting energy use about 35 per cent from current construction standards. The changes were lauded by Energy Minister Dwight Duncan, who said the construction of more efficient homes will help the province reduce its power use, a prime goal in Ontario where electricity shortages are a threat during periods of high air-conditioning use. Over the next eight years, the new measures will save the equivalent of enough energy to run about 380,000 homes and cut greenhouse-gas emissions by about the same amount as taking 250,000 cars off the road, according to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 10:05 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

July 10, 2006

Guelph plant recognized for energy efficiency

The Owens Corning glass fiber reinforcement plant in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, has cut natural gas consumption by more than 40 percent and received a $120,000 prize from the Union Gas Energy Efficiency Promotional Program. During 2005, the Guelph plant implemented front-end oxygen firing and furnace improvements, saving more than 4 million cubic meters of natural gas annually. Union Gas is the owner/operator of natural gas delivery systems in Southwestern Ontario. The company is a strong supporter of energy efficiency. The company says energy efficiency ensures the ongoing viability of its existing customer base while generating additional capacity to grow. The award program is intended to fund equipment, installation and engineering costs for eligible projects.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 06:59 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

July 07, 2006

New Zealand walks the talk on energy efficiency

Environment House, home of the New Zealand government department responsible for environmental issues, has been rated the country's most energy efficient office building. According to a report posted by Scoop, an independent audit has shown that Environment House's energy consumption is only 40 percent of the average energy use of similar buildings in New Zealand. Environment House currently uses 113 kWh/m2 per year, compared to the New Zealand average of 269 kWh/m2 per year for office buildings. The lower consumption means that the Ministry spends approximately $100,000 less per year on energy compared to the average building of the same size. The report says Environment House was not designed as a 'green building' but energy consumption has been kept low through a careful selection of building materials, roof insulation, sensor lights, smart systems for appliances and air conditioning, and a high awareness of energy efficiency among the staff.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News , Green Design at 11:31 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 23, 2006

Builder hosts free public service seminar

Decker Homes in Toledo, Ohio did something this week I hope more builders will do around the world -- the company hosted a public service seminar on home energy efficiency. The seminar is just the latest example of the company's long term commitment to energy efficient home construction. In 2005, Decker Homes won Green Energy Ohio's Business of the Year Award. Among the many speakers at this week's event was Owens Corning Building Materials Technical Service Leader Tim Grether. He discussed how insulation, windows and heating, ventilation and air conditioning work together as a system to reduce energy use, and thus, energy costs. Grether also conducted an energy assessment of a "typical" Decker home. A Pink Paw Salute to Bill Decker Sr., for his continuing commitment to energy efficiency.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News , Green Design at 01:45 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 20, 2006

A million points of light campaign

With an expressed goal of preventing more than a billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions from entering the Earth's atmosphere, Environmental Defense last week launched a campaign encouraging Americans to replace one million standard light bulbs with energy efficient models. According to the organization's news release, in just the first few hours of the online campaign Americans pledged to replace bulbs that will save 35 million pounds of carbon dioxide pollution. The website tells you why the action is important and says if you tried the bulbs a few years ago and were disappointed, it's time to try them again. There is a section on how to buy a better bulb. Check it out.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 05:57 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 16, 2006

Norway creates renewable energy fund

This past Sunday, Norway, Western Europe's largest oil producer, announced the creation of a 2.5 million euro renewable energy fund. That's surprising news by itself but what really shocks me is learning that hydropower already accounts for 99 per cent of the electricity generated in Norway, with an annual average production of about 119 Terawatt hours. The installed hydropower capacity is 28,300 megawatts, making Norway the sixth largest hydro power producer in the world. Norway is also Europe's leading producer of electricity based on renewable energy sources. The annual production of about 119 Terawatt hours is equivalent to almost one third of the total production of electricity from renewable energy sources in Europe. Apparently not satisfied with all of that, Norway is establishing a new fund to pursue its unutilized renewable energy potential from various other sources. Nearest to commercial breakthrough at the moment are wind power and bio energy, while tidal and wave power holds promise for the future. Norway's wind resources are said to be especially large along the coast and in the north. High wind velocity and the large open areas make wind power particularly favorable.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 08:11 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 15, 2006

WINDPOWER 2006 judged big success

Last week's WINDPOWER conference and exhibition in Pittsburgh broke all records for the show with 290 exhibitors and more than 5,000 attendees. That's a healthy sign for the future of wind energy in the US. At least that's the hope of the American Wind Energy Association, organizers of the event. During the show the Association, the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory committed to develop an action plan focused on providing up to 20 percent of the nation's electricity from wind energy. The WINDPOWER 2007 Conference & Exhibition will take place June 3 - 6, 2007 in Los Angeles, California. (Hmmm; in the neighborhood; maybe I'll attend.)

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 08:07 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 07, 2006

Another fan of energy efficient light bulbs

BuaNews Online reports that South African Minerals and Energy Minister Lindiwe Hendricks wants to phase out incandescent light bulbs in the country and replace them with compact fluourescent lights. In the report, Hendricks says that although various stakeholders have mounted energy efficiency campaigns, energy saving has not become a way of life to many South Africans -- including motorists. Speaking at the 17th annual eta awards for energy efficiency in Johannesburg, Hendricks said her department would take steps to phase out the use of certain classes of incandescent light bulbs in the country because the bulbs are believed to be energy wasteful. They would be replaced with the compact fluorescent lamps, which manufacturers say use 25 percent less electricity than traditional bulbs to produce the same amount of light.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 07:20 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 06, 2006

Energy efficiency said to help economy

An article posted in the Guardian Unlimited website last week says the UK government has been urged to step up efforts to improve energy efficiency after a report said it would not only cut the production of global warming gases but also improve Great Britain's economic growth and employment and reduce inflation. By contrast, the report says attempts to bring down CO2 emissions by increasing the price of fuel risks damaging the UK's economy by driving up inflation and reducing growth.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 06:44 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

June 04, 2006

US Wind energy show opened today

Windpower 2006 opened today in Pittsburgh. Organized by the American Wind Energy Association, North America's largest wind energy conference and exhibition is expected to have more than 4,500 attendees and 280 exhibitors. The event brings together leading industry professionals from around the world for three days of conferences and an interactive tradeshow. As a point of interest, this year's trade show takes place at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, a cutting edge facility awarded Gold LEED certification by the US Green Building Council. It claims to be the first "green" convention center in the US and the world's largest green building. Environmentally-friendly attributes include exhibit halls that are 75 percent naturally lit, the use of recycled and non-toxic materials and natural ventilation. Wind energy has experienced tremendous growth in recent years but still has a long way to go to make a significant contribution to the nation's energy needs.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 07:09 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

May 27, 2006

Energy use highlighted in Eastern Europe

A Reuters News Service article distributed last week says the former communist states of East Europe and the USSR use up to seven times more energy than Western Europe does to produce one unit of Gross Domestic Product. The information is attributed to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The situation is said to be a legacy of days when the Soviet Union provided cheap energy to its satellites. Only the United States and China reportedly emit more greenhouse gases than these countries taken together. The article says the bankers see the situation as not only wasteful and bad for the environment but also bad business and poor strategy for the future. Josue Tanaka, EBRD corporate director for energy efficiency and climate change, is quoted as saying "it's cheaper to save a unit of energy than to have to generate it." The report is one of the lead articles on the Planet Ark, a daily guide to helping the planet.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 07:43 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

May 23, 2006

Municipality mandates energy efficiency

The Toronto Star reports today that East Gwillimbury is Canada's first municipality requiring homebuilders to construct energy efficient houses. The new policy, passed in March, requires subdivisions with 10 or more homes to be built to Energy Star standards. Mayor James Young is quoted as saying, "It's a no-brainer." He also said, "It's better for the environment, it will produce fewer greenhouse gases and means a better-quality home." Energy Star homes include high efficiency heating, air conditioning and hot water systems and airtight ductwork. The homes also feature upgraded insulation, energy efficient appliances, high performance windows and doors and reduced air infiltration. The Star article says the price tag is C$4,000 to C$7,000 per home but the innovations will reduce energy costs. Way to go, Gwillimbury!

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News , Green Design at 02:21 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

May 19, 2006

Shanghai Mayor calls for reduced energy use

A report published last Thursday on English.eastday.com said Shanghai Mayor Han Zheng called on the city to cut energy use per unit of gross domestic product by 20 percent from the 2005 level by 2010. His remarks were made during the city's energy efficiency work conference. The report said energy consumption per unit of GDP fell 16.5 percent between 2000 and 2005. According to the 11th five-year plan, this level should be cut by a further 20 percent. Go Shanghai!

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 06:19 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

May 17, 2006

Inefficient aircraft retire in desert

A Reuters article published Sunday describes how some 2,000 airplanes are soaking up the sun in the southwestern US because they are not fuel-efficient enough for active service with today's high jet fuel prices. Written by John Crawley, the article says many of the idled planes may never fly again because cost pressures are pushing airlines toward newer models that require less fuel and fewer people to maintain them. Not mentioned in the article is a trend toward greater use of composite materials to reduce the weight of new aircraft and make them more fuel efficient. Composite materials include carbon and glass fibers, and fiber metal laminates. Laminates are used in the fuselage while fiber-reinforced composites are used in flooring and overhead containers, and in high-traffic areas such as lavatories and food service galleys. Cargo planes use composite flooring and containers. For more about what Boeing and Airbus are doing to make their planes more fuel efficient, check their Websites.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 07:56 AM | | TrackBacks (0)

May 12, 2006

UN chief calls for revolution

In a speech Wednesday at United Nations headquarters in New York, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said we need a revolution in energy efficiency. Addressing the opening meeting of the Commission on Sustainable Development, Annan called for new approaches to energy use with a focus on greater efficiency, increased investment in renewable sources and new technologies. "We must capture and use excess heat, and make greater use of hybrid vehicles and other energy-efficient technologies," he said. Annan also called for cutting the pollution generated by fossil fuels and pointed out that the high cost of oil imposes economic burdens on some poor countries while contributing to climate change. (Sounds like an opportunity for insulation!) Saying that renewable sources of energy remained woefully inadequate and underutilized, the Secretary-General added that all countries needed to be more rigorous in carrying out what they have agreed to do with regards to energy and sustainable development. More than 80 ministers are attending the Commission meeting, which concludes today. A comprehensive report on the event can be found on the UN Website. A Cliff Notes version is at United Press International.

Posted by Pink Panther in Energy News at 03:54 PM | | TrackBacks (0)

May 08, 2006

Inventors Hall of Fame recognizes fiber glass pioneers

The National Inventors Hall of Fame Foundation held a two-day recognition program this past weekend for new inductees and their families. Among the inventors in the class of 2006 are three who invented the process for making glass fiber insulation in commercial quantities -- Dale Kleist, Dr. Russell Games Slayter and John H. Thomas. In the 1930s the three men developed an insulation material that is lighter and more refined than what was available at the time. Their work resulted in a new type of mass-produced, affordable insulation that is now used by millions of people around the world. Their innovations also led to the formation of Owens Corning in 1938. The National Inventors Hall of Fame Website and museum in Akron, Ohio are both worth a visit.

Posted by Pink Panther Energy News , Owens Corning at 11:41 AM | | TrackBacks (0)