Energy-efficiency measures with a higher first cost often provide large savings in energy use and operational energy bills. These credit requirements are directly tied to the benefits of efficient, low-cost operations.
Some energy efficiency features may require special training for operations and maintenance personnel. For example, cogeneration and building automation systems require commissioning and operator training.
The benefit of designing for energy efficiency is realized only during operations and maintenance. Record energy use to confirm that your project is saving energy as anticipated. If you are not pursuing EAc5: Measurement and Verification, you can implement tracking procedures such as reviewing monthly energy bills or on-the-spot metering.
Develop an operations manual with input from the design team in collaboration with facility management and commissioning agent if pursuing EAc3: Enhanced Commissioning.
A carpooling program can be a great opportunity to talk to students about alternative transportation options and to raise awareness about personal carbon footprints and other environmental issues related to transportation.
Communicate with staff, parents, and students about vanpooling and carpooling. Take this opportunity to develop an education program. Develop literature, and post signs in public areas and notices on the school’s website. Make it as easy as possible for people to find out about and use the program.
Communicate with building and tenant occupants about the carpool or vanpool preferred parking spaces and if applicable, additional programming benefits. Take this opportunity to develop an educational program for occupants. Develop literature and post signs in public areas and on the company’s intranet. The literature and educational programs should be easily accessible to all building occupants.
