Demand for Energy to Rise 30% by 2040, Tempered by Efficiency Gains

Worldwide demand for energy will increase 30% over the next 30 years, as prosperity expands across the world and the population grows to nearly 9 billion people, according to Exxon Mobil Corp. In its The Outlook for Energy: A View to 2040 report, the energy company says that China, India, Africa and other emerging economies will lead the growth, while demand in the United States and other fully developed economies will remain relatively constant. Energy demand will shift toward less-carbon-intensive energy sources such as natural gas, and renewable energy sources will increase to account for 15% of world energy supply. The report adds that projected increase in demand would be four times higher without projected gains in efficiency.

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Source: Exxon Mobil

Tenants, Operation Key to Building Performance

Architects and engineers can only go so far in delivering on energy efficiency, according to a new study by New Buildings Institute (NBI). The study suggests that although the market generally assigns responsibility for building energy performance to the design team for aspects such as envelope, HVAC system and lighting system features, operational and tenant practices have a significant impact on building energy use. The study found that best practices in building operations can reduce energy use 10% to 20% across all climate zones. Poor operations practices can increase energy use 30% to 60% or more.


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Source: New Buildings Institute

Sustainable Buildings Cost Less to Maintain

Sustainably designed federal buildings cost 19% less to maintain, according to a report by the U.S. Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The report, prepared for the General Services Administration (GSA), also found that such buildings also use 25% less energy, consume 11% less water and emit more than one-third less carbon dioxide than conventionally designed buildings. The study also found occupant satisfaction to be significantly higher in sustainable buildings.


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Source: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Photo: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory