According to a report produced by attendees of a workshop held by the Federal Facilities Council, Washington, D.C., federal agencies may have to make significant process changes to meet the Energy Independence and Security Act, which mandates 30 percent energy reduction in federal buildings by 2015. Attendees recommend altering funding of energy-improvement mechanisms by Congress. Appropriators and oversight committees need to recognize additional upfront funds may be needed to implement energy savings, but long-term costs will fall with lower energy expenditures.

Establishing a government-wide revolving fund for energy improvements and energy-efficient-equipment purchases that is funded in part by the energy savings federal agencies would realize would help. Technical feasibility also is a major consideration in meeting the act’s requirements. An integrated-design process can encourage collaboration to make energy-saving decisions. Other key areas of interest include education and training and case-study development. To receive a copy of the report, e-mail Wendy Angel at wangel@ashrae.org.