GE's efficient T-8 bulbs were used, which dim as the sensors detect sunlight. During the summer months, air conditioning in most buildings doubles electricity consumption. In the winter, electric heat also doubles power consumption. Unlike most air conditioners, it heats and cools with natural gas. When installed, the unit was only one of about three in New York City.
Most offices only circulate their air about four times per hour.
Although some of the new products' initial costs were higher than conventional ones, Audubon required that they ALL pay for themselves within five years. Natural carpet padding made of jute fibers encased in recycled paper. In addition, the carpets and pads were tacked to the floor, avoiding the chemical offgassing that would have occurred had they been glued. GTE floor tiles made of recycled glass, left over from lightbulb manufacture. Much harder than most, the tiles will not need to be replaced as often as standard floor tiles.