In a continuing evaluation of the Federal Energy Management Program, GAO identifies areas in which the program could be improved in order that federal agencies may achieve the President's 20-percent energy reduction goal for existing buildings. In this report GAO discusses the following 10 devices that may be used as retrofit projects in federal buildings: (1) null thermostat; (2) temperature control valve for radiators; (3) packaged stack gas economizers; (4) electric ignitors; (5) on-load cleaning system for condenser tubes; (6) time clocks for convenience equipment; (7) heat run-around for hospitals; (8) more efficient exterior light sources; (9) chiller water temperature control; and (10) more efficient interior lighting.

Several factors were found which impede the federal government's use of energy-saving technology: (1) the evaluation, collection, and distribution of information on energy-saving devices is not being coordinated; (2) lack of information delays procurement of available energy-saving products; and (3) procurement policies do not ensure that adequate consideration is given to energy conservation in the procurement process.

Status Legend:

Review Pending-GAO has not yet assessed implementation status.

Open-Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned, or actions that partially satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-implemented-Actions that satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-not implemented-While the intent of the recommendation has not been satisfied, time or circumstances have rendered the recommendation invalid.

• Review Pending
• Open
• Closed - implemented
• Closed - not implemented

Recommendation for Executive Action

Recommendation: The Director of Management and Budget should have the Administrator of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy issue a new policy statement requiring consideration of energy conservation and efficiency in the procurement process. It is also recommended that the Secretary of Energy direct officials responsible for the Federal Energy Management Program to develop policies that will assist agencies to use currently available energy-saving products more effectively. These policies and procedures should provide for the Department of Energy to: (1) coordinate the evaluation of energy-saving devices among federal agencies to prevent duplication of effort; (2) collect and distribute information on energy-saving devices to federal procurement officials and those who are responsible for operating and maintaining federal buildings; and (3) establish and coordinate a program of demonstration projects utilizing energy-saving devices in federal buildings.

Agency Affected:

Status: Closed

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