To earn a 97% ENERGY STAR score at Met Council headquarters, the Council had to meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy.
Only buildings with a score of 75 or higher are eligible for ENERGY STAR certification, with verification. As partners sign up across the country, the result is energy conservation and greater energy security, economic development, the ability to be competitive, and a healthier environment.
ENERGY STAR is a voluntary EPA program that helps businesses and individuals save money and protect climate through superior energy efficiency.
What did the Council do to receive such distinction? Here are a few investments in energy efficiency at its Robert Street location:
- Occupancy and air quality sensors that automatically adjust lighting, heating and cooling based on whether people are in a room or area.
- Converting older lighting technology to newer, more energy-efficient technology, such as LEDs.
- Window replacement for better insulation
- Elevator system updates that use more energy-efficient technologies.
Facilities Manager Steve Ylitalo says the goal is a smart building that uses automated processes to conserve energy, ensure a healthy indoor environment, and promote stewardship of natural resources.