City of Sydney leading in energy efficiency

City of Sydney leading in energy efficiencyCommercial property continues to lead the way in energy efficiency in the City of Sydney. Total energy use in buildings has fallen five percent from 2006 to 2012 and continues to decline. This has occurred during a period of significant growth in the economy, employment and new floor space. Had there been no growth in floor space since 2006, the net energy and emissions savings would be some 10 to 15 percent greater.More than percent of the office floor space of Sydney’s CBD is represented by the Better Buildings Partnership, with these commercial landlords working to improve the energy, waste and water efficiency of Sydney’s buildings. These improvements have saved members more than $25 million a year off their annual power bills.The City of Sydney has released its draft Energy Efficiency Master Plan in order to build on these gains.Energy efficiency forms part of the City’s goal to cut emissions by 70 percent by 2030, based on 2006 levels.The master plan’s actions include:• Safeguarding energy and emissions savings by maintaining existing core programs and standards;Improving compliance of building standards and codes;Providing education and training for planners, property owners, tenants, building managers and assessors;Improving energy efficiency in buildings through retrofit and tune-up programs;Making it easier to access finance and incentives for improved energy efficiency;Developing new energy efficiency ratings;Increasing minimum performance of new buildings;Improve equity by advocating on behalf of low-income households; andShow by doing, through best practice for City-owned buildings.To view the Master Plan, or make a submission, click here.