A new publication from industry organizations provides guidance for the business case to achieve energy savings of as much as 30 percent. “Energy Efficiency Guide for Existing Commercial Buildings: The Business Case for Building Owners and Managers” provides the rationale for making economic decisions related to improving and sustaining energy efficiency in existing buildings. Approximately 86 percent of U.S. annual building-construction expenditures relate to renovation of existing buildings vs. new construction. Specifically, the guide provides applications that could produce energy savings from 10 to 15 percent or a more aggressive approach that could save at least 30 percent.

The book is a collaboration of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), the American Institute of Architects, the Building Owners and Managers Association, the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, the U.S. General Services Administration, and the U.S. Green Building Council.

The book is the first of three planned guides on energy efficiency. The second will be aimed at providing technical guidance in undertaking existing-building renovation programs. The third will provide operation and maintenance guidance to help sustain energy efficiency.

The book costs $69 ($59 for ASHRAE members). To order, contact ASHRAE Customer Service at 1-800-527-4723 (United States and Canada) or 404-636-8400 (worldwide), fax 404-321-5478, or visit www.ashrae.org/energyguide.