**Number range CHAPTERENERGY and WATER CONSERVATION**

**Overview**![](media/image1.png){width="1.1805555555555556in"
height="0.975in"}

Although the Service is recognized as a Federal energy leader, we can do
more to conserve energy and be good environmental stewards.

While the conditions that created the energy shortages and rolling
blackouts in California and other States in the summer of 2001 abated in
2002, the Service must continue to implement energy reduction
strategies. **In FY 2002, the Service spent \$8.6 million for energy in
over 6 million energy-using square feet of buildings, processes,
aviation gasoline and jet fuel.** Energy consumption in Service
buildings in FY 2002 decreased approximately 50 percent from the 1985
base year, which exceeds the FY 2003 goal of -25 percent. **However,
total energy use and costs increased by approximately 5 percent from the
previous year.** Looking good on paper is not enough; reducing energy
costs will free up funds for resource management projects.

The Service must incorporate energy efficiency in the planning, design,
construction, and ongoing maintenance of buildings. In FY 2002, a total
of 43 energy projects were completed at a total cost of \$767,024.

**Consider the management of energy as part of the field station's
overall Environmental Management System (EMS). Consider the following
steps in the process:**

-   **Contact The Regional Energy Manager First.** Managers can provide:

    -   Technical assistance in conducting audits.

    -   Information on project financing and partnering opportunities
        and coordination in Service-wide energy conservation
        initiatives.

-   **Look at the past Annual Energy Report:**

    -   Energy use and costs, breaking out building and equipment use
        and fuel types when possible;

    -   Water use gallons and costs, breaking out use by building and
        operation when possible.

-   **Conduct the energy walk-through:**

    -   Identify energy and water-using equipment and practices.

    -   Check energy efficiency ratings, water conservation ratings, and
        how buildings and equipment are operated and maintained.

    -   Determine whether the local utility may conduct an energy audit
        as a public service.

-   I**dentify Energy Conservation Opportunities.** Use the checklist to
    identify energy and water use reduction options, including equipment
    and operational changes.

-   **Identify less glamorous, no-capital operational changes such as:**

    -   Tuning up and maintaining equipment so that they operate more
        efficiently.

    -   Adjusting thermostat settings, reducing unnecessary lighting,
        caulking windows and doors, educating employees (e.g., using the
        stairs instead of elevators).

    -   Fixing plumbing and equipment leaks and making sure water is not
        left on unnecessarily.

-   **Use a systems approach when developing recommendations, since some
    projects can generate secondary effects, such as:**

    -   Switching to energy-efficient lighting may reduce cooling loads
        in a building;

    -   Switching to water-conserving faucets (using flow restrictors)
        and showerheads may reduce water heating requirements and
        heating costs.

    -   Use of renewable and alternative fuel energy sources that are
        environmentally preferable may not be economically feasible.

-   **Energy Saving Tips.**

    -   [Building Envelope]{.underline}. Invisible leaks that allow heat
        to escape can lead to higher utility bills.

    -   [Space Heating and Cooling]{.underline}. Boilers, furnaces, air
        conditioners, and evaporative coolers could be energy guzzlers
        if not properly maintained.

    -   [Equipment, Computers, and Appliances]{.underline}. Electronic
        equipment and some power tools constantly drain away electricity
        even when they appear to be off.

    -   [Fish Hatcheries]{.underline}. Due to their substantial energy
        use, fish hatcheries are significantly affected by energy rate
        increases.

-   **Recommendations**. Energy and water conservation measures
    recommended should address:

    -   What can be done?

    -   Why should it be done?

    -   How much will it cost?

    -   What is the annual savings resulting from the recommendation?

    -   What is the break even point between annual savings and the
        improvement cost?

    -   When should it be done?

    -   How will it be funded?

-   **The** ![](media/image2.png){width="1.0583333333333333in"
    height="0.8722222222222222in"}**[Energy Star^®^]{.smallcaps}
    Approach.** A 4-step [Energy Star^®^]{.smallcaps} approach to the
    Environmental Management Plan the best way to save energy, which
    will be applied here. Energy Conservation Opportunities are listed
    in order of simple payback, as much as possible. Decreasing heating,
    cooling, and electrical loads saves energy by reducing the demand on
    heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment.

    -   **Lighting:** Installing energy-efficient lighting systems and
        controls that improve light quality and reduce heat gain is the
        biggest single energy savings action you can take!

    -   **Building Tune-up:** Examine building equipment, systems, and
        operation and maintenance procedures. *A study done by Texas A&M
        indicated that 80% of the energy savings are from building
        tune-ups.*

    -   **Supplemental Load Reductions:** Purchase [Energy
        Star^®^]{.smallcaps} equipment, install window films, add
        insulation, etc., to reduce energy consumption.

    -   **Heating And Cooling System (HVAC) Upgrades:** Replace
        chillers, retrofit or install energy-efficient equipment to meet
        the building's reduced cooling loads, upgrade boilers and other
        systems to energy-efficient standards.

-   **The Energy Walkthrough.** The following checklist is for your use
    in doing an energy walkthrough to identify Energy Conservation
    Measures (ECM's) as part of an EMS survey. The results of these
    audits are intended to be used as a guide to implement feasible and
    practical energy efficiency measures. Some key records to review,
    features to inspect and persons to contact during this process are
    listed in the table below. For additional ideas, please contact your
    Regional Energy Manager.

**The Checklist**

**Preliminary Questions**

-   Has the field station contacted the Regional Energy Manager to
    discuss potential energy efficiency and conservation
    projects/actions?

-   Has the field station taken steps to educate staff on energy
    efficiency practices such as turning off lights, keeping windows and
    doors closed, etc?

-   Has an energy audit,"SAVEnergy" Survey, or renewable energy
    opportunity assessment been performed at the facility? G Yes G No If
    so, when?

-   Have Have maintenance schedules and standards been developed to
    include energy efficiency?

-   If the Region has an energy web page, have you referred to it?

**Lighting**

*One of the most overlooked energy-saving opportunities is the light
switch. Lighting accounts for 30-50% of building energy use. This is the
biggest single energy savings action you can take! Lighting retrofits
have a 3-5 year payback, depending on electricity rates. Payback in
Alaska @ 12¢/kWh = 1 year, in Washington @ 2¢/kWh = 10 years.*

*Proper illumination levels depend on the type of work being performed,
and on occupant preference. Recommended illuminance levels for offices
range from 30 to 60 foot-candles (fc), but the quality of the visual
environment can have a substantial impact on the \"appropriate\" amount
of illumination. In well-designed office spaces, with light-colored
surfaces, appropriate task lighting, and careful placement of lights and
furniture to avoid glare and shadows, much lower illuminance levels are
acceptable, and usually even preferred.*

-   Turn off lights when leaving a room or when out of the office \--
    even for short periods!

-   Post a small sign near or on each light switch that identifies which
    lights are controlled by the switch. This enables users to be more
    selective while also reducing trial-and-error lighting that can
    consume energy as banks of lights are quickly activated and
    deactivated.

-   Repair existing fluorescent light fixtures/bulbs. Operating fixtures
    with burned out light bulbs wastes energy consumed by the light
    ballast.

-   Place reminder notes or decals on light switches to promote
    awareness. Notes such as "Turn Lights Off to Save Energy" on
    switches are estimated to be about 15 % effective.

-   Turn on task lights \-- turn off general and overhead lights.

-   Clean fixtures, walls, and windows to increase lighting levels.

-   Remove excess light bulbs from works spaces, offices, and hallways,
    provided that lighting requirements are not compromised.

-   Instead of moving luminaries (electric lighting fixtures used within
    a room), move desks and other work surfaces to a position and
    orientation that will use installed luminaires and daylighting to
    their greatest advantage.

-   Correct light levels: Reduce library/office lighting level to 50 fc
    at desk level. *This is lighting level recommended by the
    Illuminating Engineering Society.*

-   Install/rewire switches to light smaller work areas separately
    (e.g., individual cubicles).

-   **ECM:** Replace fluorescent and incandescent exit lights with
    light-emitting diode (LED) exit lights.

-   ![](media/image2.png){width="1.0583333333333333in"
    height="0.8722222222222222in"}**ECM:** Install motion detector light
    switches (occupancy sensors) in restrooms, storerooms, offices, etc.
    Dual technologies are recommended (i.e., infrared and sonic). NOTE:
    Occupancy sensors must be properly placed and the timing/use must be
    set (5 minutes, 20 minutes, whatever). Payback = 1-25 years. [Energy
    Star^®^]{.smallcaps} data indicates a simple payback of 3.4 years
    vs. 2.5 years for a central timeclock. Set occupancy sensors to
    "manual-on/automatic-off." *These settings avoid unneeded turn-ons.*

-   E**CM:** Provide a light sensor to turn outside walkway lights off
    during daylight hours.

-   Eliminate exterior lighting except for identifying building
    entrances or for security.

-   **ECM:** Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient
    compact fluorescent TCP spring lamps, which are the most commonly
    requested. *Compact fluorescent lamps save energy, reduce air
    pollution, are 3 times more efficient than incandescent bulbs, and
    realize a 37 percent annual return on investment.* The Defense
    Logistics Agency can assist in procuring high quality products at
    low cost. For additional help, go to
    [[www.dscp.dla.mil/gi/general]{.underline}](http://www.dscp.dla.mil/)
    or call: (800) DLA-BULB. GSA's Federal Supply Schedules 71 II E and
    72 II are for lighting technologies such as lamps, track lighting,
    shades, etc., and Supply Schedule 539 is for light bulbs.

-   **ECM:** Replace and recycle (
    [[www.grn.com]{.underline}](http://www.grn.com/) ) inefficient T-12
    fluorescent ceiling lights and magnetic ballasts with
    energy-efficient T-8\'s and compatible electronic ballasts when
    light ballasts need replacing. **This task can be completed with
    existing maintenance funds and will not need supplemental funds. In
    addition, T-8 light fixtures with electronic ballasts produce more
    light than T-12 light bulbs. Electronic ballasts use ½ of the energy
    than magnetic ballasts!** *Patuxent Research Refuge's Gabrielson
    Hall in Maryland saved energy by using this Energy Star^®^ lighting
    technology.*

    -   While you're at it, reduce one lamp/fixture. Replace 4 lamps
        with 3. Replace 3 lamps with 2. Replace 2 lamps with 1.

    -   Disconnect old ballasts as well as tubes in old fluorescent
        fixtures.

    -   Recycle all of the old light bulb stock, because it probably
        uses more power to keep it.

        -   [If you do not recycle]{.underline} light bulbs, use
            ecological fluorescent tubes (green tips). This
            recommendation is based on an analysis of environmental
            liabilities and disposal costs, in accordance with Executive
            Order 13148.

        -   I[f you recycle]{.underline} light bulbs, ecological
            fluorescent tubes (green tips) may not save energy after
            all. Lower mercury tubes have approximately ½ the life.
            Recycling costs the same. So we're paying twice as much for
            the tube, they last half as long, and it costs the same to
            recycle!

-   **ECM:** Investigate the feasibility of increasing daylighting in
    buildings with skylights and clerestories (a passive solar energy
    feature).

-   Paint walls lighter colors to increase light levels.

-   Consider changing to more efficient quartz halogen lights outdoors,
    unless the fixture is not there. In that case, use high-pressure
    sodium or metal halide lights. *NOTE: Compact fluorescent lights do
    not work well outside because it is too cold.*

**Equipment, Computers, and Appliances**

> Electronic equipment and some power tools constantly drain away
> electricity even when they appear to be off.

-   Turn off printers, copiers, computers, and monitors when idle for
    periods of 1 hour or more. *This is a big cost cutter. Up to \$31 a
    year for a 19-inch monitor may be saved.*

-   ![](media/image2.png){width="1.0583333333333333in"
    height="0.8722222222222222in"}Shut off coffee pots, radios, fans,
    refrigerators, and other appliances when not in use.

-   Activate [Energy Star^®^]{.smallcaps} "power saver" and "sleep"
    features.

-   Appliances such as televisions, computers, VCRs, printers, microwave
    ovens, displays, cordless phones, and cell phone chargers with
    remote controls, external power supplies, continuous digital
    displays, or rechargeable batteries use [standby power]{.underline}.
    These types of equipment are commonly called "vampires" and continue
    to consume a small amount of power when not in use. When multiplied
    by the billions of devices that use standby power, this power
    consumption becomes significant. Service employees should turn off
    all unused office machines (desktop computers, copiers, etc.) before
    leaving the office at night. Servers should remain on as
    appropriate. Note that some equipment in standby mode appears to be
    off but is operating at a reduced power level. This measure is
    temporary until new products are widely available that reduce
    standby power use without diminishing features or services. In
    addition, purchase products that use a maximum of one watt of
    standby power, or with the lowest standby power wattage available.
    *NOTE: Emergency generators or other emergency power systems are not
    standby power devices.*

-   Are fuses overloaded and blowing from lab equipment? (A safety
    concern.) Install a ground-fault interrupter to prevent this.

-   **ECM:** Purchase only computer equipment and appliances that
    feature the [Energy Star^®^]{.smallcaps} EnergyGuide label. *More
    information about [Energy Star^®^]{.smallcaps} approved products is
    at* [[www.energystar.gov](http://www.energystar.gov/)]{.underline}

-   Have vendors install "vending miser" units @ \$178.00 on all vending
    machines. *A study at NCTC in February 2003 concluded the payback
    period \< 2 years. The government should not be subsidizing vending
    machines.*
    [[www.bayviewtech.com]{.underline}](http://www.bayviewtech.com/)

NOTE: The Service purchases energy-efficient appliances (especially
microwave ovens and refrigerators) for its offices and promotes purchase
of energy-efficient items on the GSA schedule and through the Javits
Wagner O'Day (JWOD) Program, which aggressively incorporate
energy-efficient items into their product lines. (The JWOD Program
provides employment opportunities for thousands of people with severe
disabilities to earn good wages and move to greater independence.) See
[[www.gsaadvantage.gov]{.underline}](http://www.gsaadvantage.gov/)

**Building Tune-up**

-   Develop maintenance standards and schedules that include operational
    efficiency in addition to the standard maintenance to prolong
    equipment life.

-   On larger buildings, schedule maintenance and janitorial tasks
    during daylight hours.

**Heating.** *As much as 44% of your utility bill may go for heating and
cooling. Implementation of these energy conservation measures may result
in significant energy and cost savings.*

-   Change air filters regularly and tune up heating, ventilation, and
    air conditioning (HVAC) systems, following manufacturer's suggested
    guidelines to optimize performance.

-   Shut off (or remove) heating units from vestibules, lobbies, and
    corridors.

-   Ensure that plants, books, or furnishings do not block warm-air
    registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators.

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-   Do not heat storerooms unless heat is for protection of stored
    contents.

-   Heat vestibules, storerooms, and lobbies to a minimum temperature.

-   Install paddle fans to help de-stratify warm air in high ceiling
    rooms.

-   Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and
    the radiators.

-   Do not heat parking garages (it is doubtful that there are many of
    these at Department of the Interior facilities).

-   Change the spring, fall, and winter day-night time clock setting to
    operate heating equipment fewer hours of the day cycle.

-   Install programmable thermostats. *Programmable thermostats must be
    programmed!* **BEST PAYBACK.** (payback = 2-7 years).

    -   Relocate thermostats in offices from behind bookcases to a
        location above the light switch.

    -   Relocate thermostats from the bays to the Service area in the
        garage.

-   Adjust thermostats to an initial target of 72 degrees in the winter
    and 76 in the summer, **as reasonable and customary for the
    location.** *NOTE: A 1% savings is attained per 1^o^F set point
    adjustment for each 8 hours of heating, and a 2% savings is attained
    per 1^o^F set point adjustment for each 8 hours of cooling.*

-   Set HVAC thermostats for \"Occupied-Unoccupied\" cycles: Unoccupied
    cycles should provide for maintaining the building at a reduced
    temperature and allow only outside air as required for combustion or
    continuous exhaust fans.

    -   The air conditioning unit may be cycled on by a separate
        \"night\" thermostat to maintain a reduced space temperature of
        55 ^o^F. *(This ECM is recommended despite marginal payback
        because of its impact on occupant comfort and the overall
        efficiency of the heating system.)*

    -   During the unoccupied cycle, the following equipment should be
        turned off:

        -   general exhaust fans (including lavatories),

        -   outside air supply,

        -   air handling units (except as required for heating).

-   In HVAC systems:

    -   Slow fan speeds down to ½ speed. **This is the big energy
        saver.** At ½ speed, the fan is using 1/8 of the horsepower.

    -   In dual duct systems:

        -   Lower hot deck temperatures to the point where that will
            just satisfy the system;

        -   Raise cold deck temperatures to the highest that will still
            give acceptable humidity control.

        -   In Variable Air Volume (VAV) systems, provide control to
            reset the supply air temperature to a point where the damper
            of the VAV box serving the zone with the most extreme load
            is fully open.

**Hot Water Heaters.** Hot water heaters can be big energy guzzlers.

-   Maintain hot water heaters following manufacturer's suggested
    guidelines to optimize performance.

-   Set water temperatures in hot water heaters to as low as possible
    (e.g., 110 degrees).

-   Turn off hot water heaters in the off-season or when not in use for
    more than two weeks.

**Cooling.**

-   Changing the air conditioning filter every 5 years will increase
    compressor life.

-   Use venetian blinds or draperies as interior shading devices to
    assist in control of heat gain and loss in office space. (*A passive
    solar energy feature.*) For example, keep blinds or draperies closed
    during the day in the summer.

-   Consult with the manufacturer to determine if cooling equipment can
    be shut down when outside temperatures are below certain levels,
    depending on the type of air conditioning equipment used.

-   Do not cool building when it is unoccupied except to the degree
    needed to prevent damage to internal contents.

-   Set controls to pre-cool spaces at off-peak times. NOTE: Schedule
    pre-cooling startup in the morning in accordance with outdoor
    temperatures so that the building interior will be at 78^o^F when
    occupants arrive.

-   Then adjust thermostats to an initial target of 72 degrees in the
    winter and 76 in the summer, **as reasonable and customary for the
    location.** *NOTE: A 1% savings is attained per 1^o^F set point
    adjustment for each 8 hours of heating, and a 2% savings is attained
    per 1^o^F set point adjustment for each 8 hours of cooling.*

-   Chill water at night off-peak if a chiller is used.

-   Where multiple pumps (e.g., chilled water pumps and condenser water
    pumps) are installed in parallel, operate only those pumps needed to
    maintain sufficient air conditioning flow volume.

-   Attempt "peak shaving" by turning off chillers/air conditioners
    periodically during peak summer hours, in conjunction with an
    educational campaign.

**Ventilation.**

-   Ensure that plants, books, or furnishings do not block vent grills.

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-   Do not close the vents if you are using a heat pump. Closing the
    vents could damage it.

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-   Keep interior doors closed between areas where heating and cooling
    is highly regulated (e.g., offices and warehouse areas).

-   Seal air leaks with caulk and weather stripping around windows and
    doors.

-   Replace broken windows.

-   Seal leaky ducts and pipes for maximum efficiency.

-   Clean exhaust fans in rest rooms, laundry rooms and lounges,
    weatherstrip dampers, and operate properly.

-   Clean unit ventilators in lobbies and lounges, weatherstrip dampers,
    and operate properly.

-   Wire the rest room exhaust fan to the light switch.

-   Install timeclocks to shut off ventilation fans throughout the
    workday and off-hours. *Air handling units do not need to run 24/7!*

-   Adjust the time clock day-night settings to operate ventilation
    units fewer hours or at lower speeds during lesser occupied times.

-   Open outside air dampers only when the building is occupied. In
    addition, consider shutting off the air handling units on normal
    heating days 15 minutes before the occupants leave.

-   In the summer when the outdoor temperature at night is lower than
    the indoor temperature, use full outdoor air ventilation to remove
    excess heat and pre-cool the building to reduce the air conditioning
    load.

-   In the summer, increase the ventilation unit's mixed air temperature
    to minimize the air conditioning and reheat requirements.

-   Post a small sign next to each operable window instructing occupants
    not to open the window while the building is being heated or cooled.

-   Place a small sign next to each door leading to the outside or to
    unconditioned spaces advising occupants to keep the door closed at
    all times when not in use.

-   Establish a ventilation operation schedule so that the exhaust
    system operates only when it is needed. Typical fans can exhaust a
    houseful of air in just one hour. Turn fans off as soon as they have
    done their job.

-   Readjust the outdoor air to the minimum required to balance the
    exhaust and maintain a slight positive pressure to retard
    infiltration-caused losses and heat gains, in accordance with
    manufacturer's instructions.

-   Increase ventilation to at least 300 cfm in laboratories when
    occupied.

**Boilers.** *Boilers are huge energy wasters if not operated and tuned
properly. However, most Service field stations do not have boilers, so
they are presented in this separate section.*

-   If boilers are used, calibrate gauges, optimize air-to-fuel mixture,
    treat feed water appropriately, and install boiler set point resets
    for outside air.

-   Inspect boilers and furnaces annually.

-   In boilers, set the hot water temperature as low as practical.
    Provide a reset controller to maintain heating water supply
    temperature at 140 ^o^F when outside air is 60 ^o^F, and reset to
    200 ^o^F when outside air is 0 ^o^F.

-   If the building has two boilers, leave one of the two boilers off
    during most of the winter heating season and perhaps during the
    entire season if the other boiler is capable of carrying the entire
    load under design conditions. A single boiler carrying the building
    space heating load will operate at a higher annual efficiency than
    two boilers dividing the load. You should, however, periodically
    test and run the other boiler sufficiently to ensure it is ready for
    full operation if necessary.

-   Consider elimination of a hot standby boiler since, in many cases, a
    down boiler will not cause serious hardship.

-   Lower steam pressure to the minimum pressure that will satisfy
    needs.

-   Reduce amount of fresh air admitted to the boiler room in the
    winter. (Do not "choke" boilers.)

-   Shut down boilers and turn pilot lights off in summer. Be sure to
    turn off the boiler natural gas standing pilot during the summer
    months when the boiler is off!

-   If two boilers are available, use one if possible.

-   If high and low fire are available, use low fire if possible:

    -   Adjust the boiler so that during the spring and fall, the boiler
        will come on line at low fire and stay on low fire until the
        heating requirement is satisfied. The boiler will cycle less
        often and maintain a higher overall annual efficiency with this
        procedure.

    -   Decrease the fuel input rate so that the boiler will operate
        over longer periods of time at the low fire limit, thus
        decreasing off-cycle losses.

-   Extend the boiler stack higher to prevent intake of exhaust with
    outside air (safety concern).

-   **ECM:** Add an induced draft fan at the boiler stack.

-   Check combustion dampers for proper operation.

-   Clean steam traps yearly.

-   Inspect zone shut-off valves. All should be operable so steam going
    into unoccupied spaces can be shut off. Shut off steam going into
    unoccupied spaces.

-   Keep a daily log of pressure, temperature, and other data from
    instrumentation. This is the best method available to determine the
    need for tube and nozzle cleaning, pressure or linkage adjustments,
    and related measures. Variations from normal can be spotted quickly,
    enabling immediate action to avoid serious trouble. On an oil-fired
    unit, indications of problems include an oil pressure drop, which
    may indicate a plugged strainer, faulty regulator valve, or an air
    leak in the suction line. An oil temperature drop can indicate
    temperature control malfunction or a fouled heating element. On a
    gas-fired unit, a drop in gas pressure can indicate a drop in the
    gas supply pressure or a malfunctioning regulator.

-   Note the firing rate when log entries are made. (A sharp rise in
    stack temperature does not necessarily mean poor combustion or
    fouled waterside or fireside. During load change, stack temperatures
    can very as much as 100 ^o^F in 5 minutes.)

-   Straighten out as much as possible 90^o^ bends in the chimney from
    the furnace flue to the stack to reduce soot deposition *(a
    maintenance item)*.

**Supplemental Load Reductions**

*NOTE: Very seldom do windows and side insulation pay back in 10 years
or less if it takes too much labor to install.*

-   Add insulation in attics and crawl spaces. Install new blanket
    insulation (R-19) above suspended ceilings.

-   Install roof insulation (R-30). The last of the possible good
    paybacks as a retrofit (payback = 9-16 years).

-   Insulate cinderblock walls with insulated panels nailed to existing
    walls. *Wall insulation is not as good a payback as roof insulation
    as a retrofit*. Payback = 13-20 years.

-   **ECM:** Replace single-pane windows with double-pane, low-E
    energy-efficient windows. *NOTE: Most energy goes out through the
    roof. Payback = 15-25 years, as a retrofit.*

-   **ECM:** Install storm windows and storm doors.

-   Wrap hot water heaters with insulation jackets.

-   Install controls (time clock and power relay) to shut off electric
    water heater during un-occupied times.

-   Insulate hot water piping to cut convective heat loss.

-   Insulate ducts.

-   Insulate and weather-protect rooftop units.

-   Install unit heaters motion sensor plug-in strips and individual
    thermostats in low occupancy areas. *This reduces the fire hazard
    and works when needed.*

-   **ECM:** Is there an outside air intake on the rooftop air
    conditioning unit? Install a manual damper interlocked with a fan to
    provide outside make-up (ventilation air) in the summer.

-   Shade walls with awnings, overhangs, and sun shades (passive solar
    energy features).

-   Paint roofs white or provide highly reflective surfaces and colors
    for walls and roofs with a primary cooling load (a passive solar
    energy feature). *NOTE: Cool roofs (white roofs) are not as good a
    payback as roof insulation because of the air gap.*

-   **ECM:** Evaluate the feasibility of using solar mats to heat water
    at fish hatcheries.

-   **ECM:** Install thermal window film if cost-effective. Window films
    generally have good paybacks, but must be evaluated on a
    case-by-case basis.

-   Landscape grounds to add shade and windbreaks (a passive solar
    design feature). In addition, consider minimizing site clearance and
    planting native plant species that may require less irrigation
    requirements.

**Fan Systems Upgrades**

-   **ECM:** Properly size fan systems, adding variable speed drives.

-   **ECM:** Install a low leakage outside air damper, exhaust fan and
    controls to use outside air for cooling during changeover seasons
    (spring and fall).

**Electric Motors**

-   **ECM:** Replace older, inefficient motors with new, high efficient
    motors.

-   **ECM:** Install variable speed drives and appropriate controls on
    large motors, which may vary by type such as pumps, or volume such
    as air flows, etc. *Constant volume pumps waste energy.*

**Heating And Cooling System Upgrades**

The efficiency of room air conditioners is measured by the energy
efficiency rating (EER), which is the ratio of the cooling output (in
Btu) divided by the power consumption (in watt-hours). A typical new
room air conditioner has an EER of about 10, and to qualify for an
[Energy Star^®^]{.smallcaps} label requires a EER of 11 or higher.

Central air conditioners and heat pumps operating in the cooling mode
are rated according to their seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER),
which is the seasonal cooling output (in Btu) divided by the seasonal
energy input in watt hours for an average U.S. climate. Many older
central air conditioners have SEER ratings of only 6 or 7. The average
central air conditioner sold in 1998 had a SEER of about 11. Qualifying
for an [Energy Star^®^]{.smallcaps} label requires a SEER of 13 or
higher.

Central air conditioners are usually more efficient than room air
conditioners, and in general, large capacity air conditioners have
higher efficiency (provided you are not buying a larger system than is
needed just because it has high efficiency). The Air Conditioning and
Refrigeration Institute is [www.acri.org](http://www.acri.org/)

-   **ECM:** Upgrade HVAC equipment to more efficient models with high
    energy-efficiency (EER) ratios. Specify non-ozone-depleting
    substances. Properly size HVAC equipment to meet loads.

-   Install hot water heaters as close as possible to the point of use
    to reduce piping heat loss.

-   **ECM:** Replace existing equipment with energy-efficient hot water
    heaters with the [Energy Star^®^]{.smallcaps} label. Ensure that new
    hot water heaters are properly sized. Tank-less or on-demand hot
    water heaters eliminate standby heat loss and are convenient for
    remote locations. *(Note: These units may not be efficient in high
    use situations)*

-   **ECM:** Replace old ground-level fan coil heating units with new
    energy-efficient ones hung from the ceiling.

-   **ECM:** Specify water and energy efficient [Energy
    Star^®^]{.smallcaps} air conditioning and heating systems when
    retrofitting or replacing equipment. Use recycling systems if
    evaporative cooling towers are used. [Note]{.underline}:

    -   Air-cooled equipment is less efficient than water-cooled systems
        (chillers), despite the water treatment required.

    -   Centrifugal chiller with variable speed drives improves part
        load performance.

    -   Reduced condenser water temperature greatly improves chiller
        efficiency and capacity.

-   **ECM:** Dual duct HVAC systems can waste energy. Preferably, change
    dual duct systems to VAV systems by adding VAV boxes and fan
    control.

-   **ECM:** In large high-bay buildings, such as aircraft hangars,
    install Co-Ray-Vac^®^ infrared (radiant) heaters. *Demonstrated at
    Ft. Knox, Kentucky.*

-   **ECM:** At fish hatcheries, it is often practice to heat the entire
    hatchery building for only a few employees working. The cold water
    used in the trays and tanks reduces the inside air temperature
    significantly, which requires huge amounts of energy to compensate
    for this heat loss and heat the building. As such, install
    Co-Ray-Vac^®^ infrared (radiant) heaters over work areas. **This ECM
    has a very short payback and a tremendous potential for energy
    savings.**

**Fuel Switching**

-   Consider switching to other fuel types to reduce costs and minimize
    use of petroleum-based fuels. The Bozeman Fish Technology Center,
    Montana, converted from fuel oil to natural gas. In the summer of
    2002, the Litchfield Wetlands Management District, Minnesota,
    converted from electric to propane heating. Both resulted in an
    annual energy savings.

-   **ECM:** Consider natural gas driven engines and adsorption cooling
    systems, cooling wer supplements to geothermal heat pump systems,
    and evaporative cooling units as possible energy-efficient
    alternative cooling technologies.

**Energy Management Systems**

-   On very large buildings or building complexes, investigate the
    feasibility of installing an Energy Management System. EMS's
    generally do not pay for themselves through energy savings only, but
    by lower maintenance but only if they are used properly. (Payback =
    6 - 15 years).

**Renewable Energy**

> As of January 23, 2003, 82 Service field stations have renewable
> energy systems (solar, wind, geothermal).

-   **ECM:** Replace fan coil heating units with geothermal
    (ground-source) heat pumps, or if this is not feasible, with
    conventional (air-source) heat pumps. *NOTE: air-source heat pumps
    are only efficient in the 35 - 90 degree range.* Else, replace
    conventional heat pumps or forced-air electric heating systems with
    geothermal (ground-source) heat pumps,
    [[www.geoexchange.org]{.underline}](http://www.geoexchange.org/) and
    fill the tubes with non-toxic Enviro-Kool^tm^ fluid
    [[www.cwichem.com]{.underline}](http://www.cwichem.com/)

-   **ECM:** Install solar outdoor lighting (
    [[www.solarlighting.com]{.underline}](http://www.solarlighting.com/)
    ), or photovoltaic panels in remote areas or for remote applications
    ( [[www.eren.doe.gov/pv]{.underline}](http://www.eren.doe.gov/) ).

-   **ECM:** Consider renewable energy technologies to provide all or a
    portion of total heating requirements. Technologies that have been
    successful at Interior facilities include solar panels for domestic
    water heating and building heating.

**Wood**

> Some field stations heat their buildings with wood fireplaces or
> furnaces.

-   **ECM:** If a fireplace is needed in a historic structure or other
    reason, replace the conventional wood burning fireplace with a
    forced-air wood burning stove, or one that burns pellets.

-   Sweep chimneys annually (a safety and maintenance item).

**A Note About Advanced Energy Technologies**

Advanced energy technologies include microturbines and fuel cells.
Microturbines experience too many development and maintenance problems
*(per experience at Fort Drum, New York)*. Fuel cell technology will not
be economical until about 2010.

**Utilities.** *The utility is your friend and may be able to assist the
field station.*

-   Does the field station have a copy of the document, \"Demand Side
    Energy Management Guidelines\" (August 1993)?

-   Contact the local utility and request a free energy audit.

-   Determine if rebates are available and use them to supplement
    station maintenance funds to complete energy and water saving
    projects.

**Maintenance Management System.** *There is little benefit in
installing advanced or renewable energy technologies in
energy-inefficient buildings. Unless energy-related deferred maintenance
projects are included in the MMS, they will not be funded.*

-   Ensure that energy-related MMS projects are included on the MMS
    backlog list and are coded properly (e.g., lighting, insulation, air
    infiltration control, and windows).

**Drive Green.** *Not only do vehicles pollute, but "driving green" and
increasing the mpg will reduce our imports of foreign oil.*

-   NOTE: Refer to the new web site for alternative fueling sites and
    vehicles at:

    -   <http://sii.fws.gov/r9cgs/altfuel.htm> . It contains a list of
        Service field stations with more than 5 vehicles and the
        addresses of any alternative fueling sites within 10 miles.
        Another list has the distances from these stations to the
        nearest ethanol (E-85 or ethyl alcohol), Compressed Natural Gas
        (CNG or methane), and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG or propane).
        The site also has hypertext links to all available alternative
        fuel sites and vehicles, Executive Orders, and Federal
        literature.

-   Combine trips in vehicles and make fewer vehicle runs per week.

-   Follow recommended vehicle maintenance practices (e.g., tune-ups,
    tire inflation).

-   Don't let the engine idle for excessive periods.

-   When upgrading vehicles, select the minimum size suitable for
    necessary tasks, or consider purchase of an Alternative Fuel Vehicle
    (AFV). *Employees do not always need to use the 4x4 vehicle to go to
    town on paved roads! Currently, the Service has **35 AFV\'s** and
    **four electric trams** for visitor wildlife tours.*

-   Consider acquisition of hybrid vehicles.

-   Reduce gasoline fuel use in vehicles by purchasing biofuels.

-   Practice car pooling. (In some cases, free parking is provided for
    car pools.)

**Management Tools.** *A palette of management tools may be used
increase energy awareness.*

-   Include energy efficiency in the position descriptions and
    performance evaluation criteria of maintenance managers.

-   Hold office contests for energy savings ideas, actions, etc.

-   Create a display of energy conservation posters and energy-efficient
    lights and what your facility is doing to save energy. Include a
    chart of building energy use reductions.

-   Note water conservation measures in bathrooms to educate the public
    and staff.

-   Project Leaders should consider giving time-off awards to "energy
    champion" employees who implement energy efficiency projects, if
    this is allowable.

**Water Conservation Measures.**

-   Conduct a leak survey to identify and fix leaks in plumbing and
    water conveyance systems.

-   Replace existing bathroom fixtures with ultra-low flush 1.6 gallon
    toilets, low-flow 2.5 gpm showerheads, faucet aerators and in-line
    flow restrictors, etc., to reduce water consumption. *NOTE: Do not
    put a brick in the toilet \-- they dissolve and can cause
    maintenance problems.*

-   Install electronic controls for faucets, toilets and urinals, as
    applicable. Set value times as low as possible without compromising
    performance.

-   Replace vertical model washing machines with water and energy
    efficient horizontal axis clothes washing machines, if feasible.

-   Use recycled (closed loop) cleaning systems for vehicle washing.

-   Operate clothes and dish washers only with full loads.

-   Broom-sweep driveways and walkways rather than using a hose. If a
    hose must be used, use a high-pressure nozzle with a shut off valve.

-   Use reclaimed water or runoff from surfaces or roofs for landscape
    irrigation, where feasible and appropriate.

-   Install composting toilets, where appropriate.

-   Restrict irrigation to mornings (and if necessary evenings and
    nighttime) to decrease water loss from evaporation. Water only when
    needed and avoid using sprinklers - they waste water through
    evaporation. Use soaker hoses that sweat water directly into the
    soil and have less evaporative loss. If using a sprinkler, ensure
    that the water is distributed only on the area requiring watering.

-   Employ xeriscape landscaping techniques to save water.

-   Install rain and fog drip irrigation systems.

**Billing.** Are you paying the right amount?

-   State and local taxes should not be paid.

-   Is the bill the correct bill for the facility?

**Reporting.** *The Service reports energy consumption data annually, in
accordance with the Energy Policy Act of 1992 and Executive Order 13123,
"Greening the Government Through Efficient Energy Management."*

-   Are field station personnel clear as to why energy consumption is
    reported? Energy data are used by the Service Energy Coordinator to
    prepare the Annual Energy Report to the Department of the Interior
    and the Department of Energy, evaluate candidates for energy
    SAVEnergy audits and renewable energy evaluations, evaluate energy
    projects for alternative funding, prepare OMB Exhibit 55 for the
    Budget Estimates, and respond to [numerous]{.underline} requests for
    information throughout the year from the Department and the
    Department of Energy.

-   Has the station provided an annual energy report via the web-enabled
    database: refuges.rmis.fws.gov ?

-   Has the station included information about all attempted or
    completed projects or initiatives?

-   Has the station updated the Facility Energy Strategic Plan, which is
    located on the refuges.rmis.fws.gov web page?

-   NOTE: A rule-of-thumb is, unless other accurate data are available,
    process energy is estimated to be 5% for refuges and 60% for
    hatcheries. Energy data are modified by Regional Energy Managers or
    the Service Energy Coordinator using the Energy Database if data are
    unavailable, which is usually the case.

**For More Information**

DOI Energy And Water Conservation Pollution Prevention Plan Strategy. (
[www.doi.gov/oepc](http://www.doi.gov/oepc)

FEMP. 1-800-363-3732 (Help Line), ( [www.eren.doe.gov/femp]{.underline}
)

EPA ENERGY STAR® Program. 1-888-STAR-YES (Hotline), or

( [www.epa.gov/energystar.html]{.underline} )

Waterwise Web Site. ( [www.waterwise.org]{.underline} )

Environmental Building News, (
[www.buildinggreen.com/products]{.underline} )

Whole Building Design Guide, <http://www.wbdg.org/>