Increase Energy Efficiency through Building Management Education Programs (RCI Action 4.2)

Continue and expand energy efficiency education for building maintenance and energy management staff. The industrial, commercial, and government sectors should make use of the many training opportunities provided by utilities, energy companies (e.g., oil and propane distributors), and private consulting firms. Training should focus on energy audits as a proven method for identifying energy efficiency opportunities to minimize or eliminate net CO2 output in existing buildings. For new construction, "beyond code" certification would assure that buildings produce the lowest possible environmental impacts.

In addition, encourage the creation of building energy manager positions within organizations that are still without these positions. The concept of placing one person in charge of energy efficiency within an organization should be promoted even for small businesses. This action would result in regular reviews of energy use and identification of energy saving opportunities. Building energy managers should be given the responsibility and budgetary tools to implement energy saving measures as they are identified.