Only those measures with a simple payback of 4 years or less must be implemented. If you'd like to start saving money and energy in your area, you can count on support from the federal government. Because the standard is already translated into code language, localities can adopt a commercial energy code by simple reference. As San Francisco's experience shows, to be successful, an energy efficiency program must be easy to understand and inexpensive to administer. Studies have shown that simple standards are far more likely to result in high levels of compliance.
Education is another critical component of any successful energy efficiency program.
Because of the many different sizes and types of commercial buildings, and the complexities of commercial construction, lack of compliance with energy codes is a serious problem. In addition, many commercial codes rely on architects and engineers to help assure compliance. One useful strategy is to develop a local design guide and distribute it to commercial architects and engineers. Another important criterion for success is to establish the cost- effectiveness of the energy efficiency measures under consideration. Researchers in Montgomery County, for instance, found that the most efficient lighting system was less expensive than standard lighting in initial cost when reduced HVAC and electrical costs were included in the analysis.