ETL 1110-3-491
7 May 01
(3.) Use energy conserving mechanical and electrical equipment and their
accessories, as well as lighting, that meets or exceeds existing Corps criteria.
Investigate the use of cleaner fuels such as natural gas and cogeneration where remote
government owned power plants are available.
b. Ensure that the design methodology and other energy conservation criteria of
Chapter 11, Architectural and Engineering Instructions--Design Criteria, are followed or
exceeded, including the selection of equipment and systems based on life cycle cost
and compliance with energy use budgets. Consider the use of low energy consuming
systems such as geothermal heat pumps, desiccant cooling and thermal storage, as
well as equipment that exceeds the minimum energy efficiencies contained in the CEGS
and other Corps criteria.
c. Gather information on the climate including temperature, humidity, insulation,
wind, precipitation and other weather anomalies. Identify aspects of the micro-climate
that create opportunities for energy conservation such as solar orientation for passive
and/or active solar strategies, and topography or vegetation for shade and windbreaks.
Explore energy sources available at the site. Identify opportunities for the cost-effective
use of alternative energy resources such as photovoltaic panels, wind, biofuels and
geothermal. Review utility rate structures and identify demand charges. Evaluate
potential for utility rebates. Investigate building usage patterns and occupant loading
rates for optimum conditions.
d. Determine lighting levels for all programmed areas based on Illumination
Engineering Society (IES) recommendations. Consider lighting strategy when
determining foot-candle levels (e.g., uplighting, downlighting, etc.). When task lighting
is anticipated, reduce ambient lighting levels accordingly. Determine plug loads for
energy modeling purposes based on the probable usage. Consider difference between
energy surge during equipment start up and actual energy usage of equipment, and
factor in diversity to reflect actual number of equipment users at any given time. Plug
loads are commonly overestimated. Require office equipment and appliances to meet
the requirements of the EPA Energy Star program.
10. Management of Water as A Limited Resource
a. Water is one of our most important life sustaining resources; with potable water
being critical in much of the U.S. Sustainable Design requires careful consideration of
the following: (a) utilize xeriscape design principles, and water-efficient, low-
maintenance, native landscape materials, (b) utilize water-efficient plumbing fixtures, (c)
design for the reuse of rainwater and "graywater" (water from showers, sinks, and
washing machines) where permitted, and (d) recycle sewage treatment plant sludge or
minimize the environmental impact of its disposal.
B-9