EPA Energy Efficiency Competition

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star program launched its annual National Building Competition: the Battle of the Buildings. A record 3,200 buildings from around the country go head to head to improve energy efficiency, and found out who can be the biggest energy loser this year.

“Commercial buildings in the U.S. are responsible for about 20 percent of the nation’s energy use and greenhouse gas emissions at a cost of more than $100 billion annually in energy bills,” according to the EPA.

“By improving the energy efficiency of commercial buildings, such as schools, offices, hospitals and retail stores, competitors will reduce energy waste and save on utility bills while protecting the environment and people’s health.”

When the competition first started in 2010, there were 14 buildings who signed up; which jumped to 245 in 2011, to more than 3,200 this year. The numbers say a lot about how businesses are really looking to the benefits of energy efficiency, including lower utility bills.

The competitors have a year to measure and track their buildings’ monthly energy consumption, and the winner will be announced April 2013.

Source: Energy Star

A map of the 3,200 companies who are participating in this year's EPA National Building Competition: Battle of the Buildings.