Cost Tip

Some energy conservation measures, such as energy recovery ventilation or a highly insulated building envelope, add to both construction and design costs, though with an integrated design process these costs might be recouped through savings elsewhere, such as through reducing the size of the mechanical system. The most effective approach is to have your building owner and design team together evaluate both the first costs of the energy-saving measures and their effectiveness at reducing operating costs. 

Costs will vary depending on the level of existing monitoring in your building, the number of naturally ventilated spaces, and the number of measurement devices that need to be installed. If you’re already using a BAS, costs will be limited to the parts and labor associated with installing the sensors. On the other hand, if a lot of new equipment is required, costs can be significant.

Research tax incentives offered by federal, state, or local governments for purchasing alternative-fuel vehicles. This could help offset some of the initial costs. 

The setup costs for this option may be considerable. 

There may be tax incentives or state funds available to purchase natural gas or biodiesel-powered buses. Research state and local government websites for incentive opportunities. 

There may be additional costs for purchasing new buses to meet the credit intent. If added maintenance is required, this also can lead to increased costs. 

The project owner may choose to sell the alternative fuel to the public in addition to providing it to building occupants.

Providing alternative fueling stations may have significant cost implications, though the popularity of alternative-fuel vehicles is slowly working to make them more cost-competitive. 

Costs will vary depending on the level of existing monitoring in your building, the number of densely occupied spaces, and the number of measurement devices that need to be installed. If you’re already using a BAS, costs will be limited to the parts and labor associated with installing the sensors. If you have to install a lot of new equipment to earn this credit, costs can be substantial.

Costs will vary depending on the level of existing monitoring in your building and the number of measurement devices that need to be installed. If you’re already using a BAS, costs will be limited to the parts and labor associated with installing the sensors. If not, costs may be more significant.