Free Software Tool Compares Geothermal Options

An easy-to-use, but sophisticated method of analyzing hybrid geothermal configurations is now available for free download. The HyGCHP (Hybrid Ground-Coupled Heat Pumps) software module helps users investigate several configurations of geothermal systems, including conventional geothermal systems and hybrid options. The software helps determine how much money a building owner can save, helps select optimal sizes for the equipment, compares different hybrid geothermal approaches, and analyzes the effects of different control strategies. The software was developed by the Energy Center of Wisconsin and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It is sponsored by ASHRAE and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

To read more and to download software, click here.

Source: Energy Center of Wisconsin

Standard 90.1-2007 Established as National Reference Standard for Federal, Commercial Buildings by DOE

ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, has been established by the DOE as the commercial building reference standard for state building energy codes under the federal Energy Conservation and Production Act.  As a result, states are required to certify by July 20, 2013, that they have reviewed and updated the provisions of their commercial building code regarding energy efficiency, including a demonstration that the provisions of their commercial building codes regarding energy efficiency meet or exceed 90.1-2007.

For complete article, click here.

Source: ASHRAE

Sustainable New Office Tower Set to Rise on Avenue of the Americas Overlooking Bryant Park

Hines, along with partner Pacolet Milliken Enterprises, Inc., today announced the development of an iconic new trophy-class office tower on Avenue of the Americas overlooking Bryant Park. Designed by renowned architects Henry N. Cobb and Yvonne Szeto of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, the planned 28-story, 450,000-rentable-square-foot tower will be built on property that Pacolet Milliken has owned since 1954, a key parcel on Avenue of the Americas with full-block frontage at the southwest corner of the popular Manhattan park.

For complete article, click here.

Source: Reuters
Photo: Pei Cobb Freed & Partners

AIA Launches New Initiative to Revive Stalled Construction Sites Across the Country

Over the last couple years, Americans have become increasingly familiar with the sight of stalled construction sites due to the recession. To help mitigate this ugly issue, the American Institute of Architects has launched a new initiative aimed at reviving these stalled sites and jump-starting their completion. Not only will this eliminate undesirable, empty spaces, but it will create thousands of construction jobs.

To read complete article, click here.

Source: Inhabitat (Jessica Dailey) / ArchDaily
Photo: Inhabitat

U.S. States, Cities Require Energy Use Disclosure

Many U.S. states and cities are beginning this year to require that commercial buildings measure and disclose their energy use. The new rules, which generally exempt small businesses, are expected to encourage building owners to make upgrades that will save energy and create jobs. Aug. 1 was the deadline for buildings in New York City larger than 50,000 ft2 (4600 m2), representing half of its interior space, to report how much energy they used in the past year or face $500 quarterly fines. The city will post the data on a public website next year. Similar requirements have already begun this year in Seattle and San Francisco.

To read complete article, click here.

Source: ASHRAE, USA Today