Energy Efficiency  -  December 3, 2020

Maryland recognized by DOE for energy efficiency efforts

The State of Maryland was recognized Dec. 2 by the Department of Energy’s Better Building Challenge for its advances in energy efficiency and for reducing energy intensity by 20% over its 9-million-square-foot buildings portfolio.

The state is now committed to an additional goal of reducing energy use 15% across a broader portfolio that includes over 90 million square feet.

Using its newly upgraded Western Maryland Railway Station as an example, the state showed how energy upgrades saved the facility 21% annually on energy costs compared to a 2016 baseline. Renovations to the 25-square-foot-station includes replacing the 20+-year-old HVAC system, replacing more than 500 light fixtures with LED and upgrading the building envelope with new insulation and air sealing.

These upgrades also increased the comfort of station staff through better-regulated temperature controls and it is estimated that, combined, the renovations have cut station maintenance costs by more than 70% annually.

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