ASHRAE to implement building energy label prototype in the fall

ASHRAE unveiled a prototype building energy label at its 2009 Annual Conference in Louisville, Ky. this week. The labeling program, "Building Energy Quotient" ( Building EQ ), will allow tenants to select energy-efficient spaces and help standardize the way building owners differentiate their product.

"As the United States looks to reduce its energy use , information is the critical first step in making the necessary choices and changes," said Bill Harrison, the president of ASHRAE . "With labeling mandatory in Europe and disclosure of a building’s energy performance becoming required by several states, now is the time to introduce a label that can serve as a model for mandatory programs."

Building EQ will focus solely on energy use, unlike existing labeling programs. Buildings will receive an asset rating (based on its design and energy model) and an operational rating (based on actual energy-use data from one year’s operation.) ASHRAE is currently working with major real estate developers and hopes for a widespread launch of the full program in 2010.

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