The central purpose of this primer is twofold: (1) to orient readers to key concepts often referred to as environmental accounting, and (2) to explain how the terms that refer to environmental accounting are currently being used, so that confusion about the terms does not impede progress in understanding and applying the core concepts.

This document provides accumulated data concerning the energy usage of commercial and institutional buildings which received an ENERGY STAR Score throughout the U.S. in 2009. Many more buildings earned the ENERGY STAR in 2009 than in previous years and the information contained in this document is meant to indicate trends in energy performance and ENERGY STAR certification among commercial and industrial facilities for that year. It also aims to give an overview of which commercial and industrial sectors in each state tend to participate in the ENERGY STAR program.

This document looks at performance-based criteria for rating windows in terms of energy performance. The Department of Energy and the window industry are interested in establishing a set of prescriptive thermal performance criteria for windows. In order for this study to be accurate and useful, the country was divided into four climate zones, each with its own specific requirements and windows were examined in each of those zones.

This guide is meant to help people identify the areas in which their businesses could use less energy or use energy more efficiently. It recommends beginning with an energy audit and lists some tools for financing projects. ENERGY STAR is a valuable resource for businesses who wish to manage their energy better and this guide shows business owners where to start.

This document provides a list of elements, including the building envelope, lighting, HVAC systems, water heating, power systems, and refrigeration, which can greatly influence a building’s energy efficiency. Under each heading are listed specific methods for improving the efficiency of that element.