Lighting and Thermal Efficiency Standards
EMD-79-32: Published: Mar 8, 1979. Publicly Released: Mar 8, 1979.
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The progress made by the Department of Energy (DOE) in the development of mandatory lighting and thermal efficiency standards for Federal buildings was evaluated.
Technical problems are hampering the development of a lighting efficiency standard which would take into account the following factors: nonuniform lighting levels for various building areas; lamp efficiency; lighting controls; and natural light. Such problems must be resolved to achieve lighting and thermal efficiency standards for new and existing Federal buildings. In addition, recent requirements for conserving energy in Federal buildings placed on DOE by the National Energy Conservation Policy Act may compound this situation.
Recommendation for Executive Action
Status: Closed - Implemented
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: The Secretary of Energy should promptly evaluate and resolve the issues raised in this report with respect to establishing lighting and thermal efficiency standards for Federal buildings and move forward with an aggressive and effective 10-year plan to conserve energy in both existing and new Federal buildings. If the Secretary of Energy determines that meeting the legislative requirements for energy efficiency standards and energy conservation performance standards, as well as the new requirements for conserving energy in Federal buildings contained in the National Energy Conservation Policy Act, is not possible or would be counterproductive to carrying out an effective energy conservation program for Federal buildings, the Secretary should report such findings, along with any necessary new legislation for carrying out an effective program for energy conservation in Federal buildings, to the appropriate congressional committees.
Agency Affected: Department of Energy
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