Empire State Building to cut energy use by 40 percent

We saw this article in the Low Carbon Economy.Com, April 7 blog, and give them credit and our thanks for writing the article. Since the Empire State Building is a historic icon, this is significant. The building has a small footprint, and has long been considered, because of it's age and dated design "inefficient" by modern standards. Yet as an icon, it stands as one of the world's most famous buildings. Not modern and sleek like newer buildings, but certainly, a building we cannot forget. New York again is showing the world, how to be progressive. This part of the equation is wonderful, how to conserve. We would be delighted if they had also announced that they would install 4 wind turbines on each corner of the building, and not only "conserve", but "produce" clean energy. Winds are terrrific near the top of this building. We offer this as an encouragement and stimulus to other investors and building owners. Ben B. Boothe Sr.

Empire State Building to cut energy use by 40 percentNew York's tallest building is to cut its energy consumption by 40 percent using efficiency and behavioural measures.The iconic feature of the New York skyline will benefit from a retrofit which will reduce its energy bills by $4.4 million a year.

Supported by the Clinton Climate Initiative in the enterprise, the building's owners will upgrade the landmark's 6,500 windows.

"In this distressed economic climate, there is a tremendous opportunity for cities and building owners to retrofit existing buildings to save money and save energy," said former president Bill Clinton.

Insulation will be added behind radiators to keep heat in and cold out. (Yes this building has radiators). Smart lighting which is only switched on when a room is occupied will reduce electricity use and new heating and air conditioning systems will be installed.However, as well as using technology to reduce energy use and carbon emissions, the building's upgrade will try to coax users to take personal responsibility for their own energy consumption.Tenants will have access to an online system that will allow them to monitor their energy use and provide tips on how to reduce power spend.

About 79 percent of New York City's emissions come from buildings and, according to the government's Energy Star programme, half of the city's planned CO2 reductions will come from improving buildings with renewable energy and better sustainable building improvements.

The Empire State Building is a symbol, and this rennovation will make it of greater appeal to lead the way for higher energy efficiency throughout the city and perhaps the nation.