Top January articles tout energy efficiency

Most visited articles at www.csemag.com during January 2011 included details on the EPA’s Energy Star program, ASHRAE’s Standard 90.1, the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, and California’s Green Building codes.

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January 2011’s leading Consulting-Specifying Engineer online stories include:

Keeping up with Standard 90.1 - The Standing Standard Project Committee 90.1 has been hard at work for the past six years making significant strides in the energy efficiency provisions of 90.1. The goal was to create a 2010 standard that would be used to build buildings that are 30% more efficient that buildings built to the 2004 version of the standard. This article highlights some of the significant changes. Further reading of the document to understand the direct implications is required and encourages.

California Building Code changes take effect - A series of changes to the California Building Code, which went into effect on January 1, 2011, introduce the first-in-the-nation Green Building Standards Code, or CALGREEN. The new code is expected to make new buildings more energy efficient and environmentally responsible by reducing energy, waste and water use. These changes and additions to California’s Building Code are highlighted and explained by Linda Williams of The Willits News.

A passport to international engineering - Some engineering firms are moving beyond North America in an effort to expand their offerings to other countries. Based on conversations with members of the Consulting-Specifying Engineer editorial advisory board, a few tips for international success are recommended here.

Energy Star boosts engineering business - The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program is the primary resource for property owners and operators seeking to reduce costs and demonstrate environmental stewardship through strategic energy management. In this article, some of the key resources, as well as opportunities for service and product providers to build their energy efficiency business with the help of Energy Star is discussed.

Specifying LEDs in lighting design - There is a great deal of hype today about LEDs as a viable "near-perfect" source of light, and although they are generally expected to last far longer than any conventional light source, information on LEDs is difficult to track down. Joseph M. "Jody" Good III discusses why engineers and designers need to understand LEDs more and how to provide clients with the best lighting options.

Diesel Emissions Reduction Act becomes law - The Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, recently signed into law by President Obama, is said by Allen Schaeffer to be a significant and important accomplishment for the 11th congress and vital to our national economic growth. Further statements from Schaeffer and a brief background on the DERA are included.

FAQs: New light bulb standards for California - Light bulb manufacturers are now required to meet new efficiency standards in California in order to save consumers money and energy. By reducing energy consumption the standard will reduce air pollution from the burning of fossil fuels in power plants while producing the same quality of light as traditional incandescent bulbs. Questions and answers on this topic are provided.