USGBC Nebraska Flatwater Chapter

Regionalization Task Force Update

2012-01-13T12:35:00.002-06:00

by Ryan Tushner, M.E. Group

The USGBC NFC Regionalization Task Force has had a very busy year. Since the group began meeting, the 25 members have met biweekly to determine the Regional Priority credits for the state of Nebraska in the LEED 2012 Rating Systems. The group has reached out to local organizations and individuals to develop an understanding of issues across the state, and where such issues are localized. Great efforts have been made to maintain transparency of the process, and to involve as many interested parties as possible. Currently, the task force is in the process of finalizing the regional zones within the state, and clarifying the issues present within each zone. In the coming months, the task force will refine the issues into LEED credits, and develop the final list of LEED Regional Priority credits for all of the zones within Nebraska.

In addition to the development of the LEED credits, the team has been developing positive relationships among the members, and having a great time. Contact Ryan if interested in joining the group: Ryan.Tushner@megroup.com. Meetings are held every other Friday at 10am.

NFC USGBC Monthly Chapter Meeting

2012-01-07T15:45:00.002-06:00

Demystifying the Onsite/Offsite Renewable Energy Credit for LEED

Date: Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Time: noon - 1:30pm (check-in begins at 11:30am)
Location: Scott Conference Center (6450 Pine Street, Omaha, NE)

The first meeting of the new year will be a live presentation. RSVP to programs@usgbcne.org.

Cost is $15 for members and $25 for non-members (cash/check only). Students may attend at a discounted rate of $10.

Rob Wellner from 3Degrees will present on "Demystifying the Onsite/Offsite Renewable Energy Credit for LEED." This educational session will focus on renewable energy and LEED and explores the three approaches for securing points under EAc2 - On-site Renewable Energy, EAc4 - Green Power and EAc6 - On-site and Off-site Renewable Energy. The goal of this session is for attendees to walk away with a solid understanding of EAc2, EAc4 and EAc6 in terms of the approaches, logistics and process for successfully securing points. The session will provide beneficial information for architects, engineers, contractors, property nagers, and consultants and requires no prerequisite knowledge.

1.0 CEU will be available for this presentation.

First Annual AEI/ASHRAE Expo!

2012-01-07T15:32:00.000-06:00

EARLY REGISTRATION ENDS JANUARY 10, 2012!

50% OF THE EXHIBITION FLOOR IS SOLD! - DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS OPPORTUNITY! - TWO DEMO TRAILER SPOTS AVAILABLE!

Please consider sponsoring our event. Sponsoring options are listed on our website.

When: March 7, 2012

Where: Scott Conference Center, 6450 Pine Street, Omaha, NE

This event will present an opportunity to engineers, architects, contractors, building owners and managers, interior designers, students and others involved in the building industry to learn about new technologies, applications and methodologies used in design, construction and building operations.

Speaker applications are now being accepted! There will be four topic tracks with 4 to 5 speakers each throughout the day. The tracks will range from "building 101" to advanced techniques and technologies. Some of the technical presentations will have professional learning credits (to be shown on the application)

In addition to the educational presentations, there will also be a large central exposition with products for a wide variety of building materials and technologies. The expo and conference will be in the same location so between your sessions you can peruse the latest and greatest products out there for the building industry.

For more information, please visit the website at: http://www.aei-ashraeexpo.org/ or email us at: info@aei-ashraeexpo.org

Greening The Heartland 2012

2012-01-07T15:16:00.001-06:00

The Indiana Chapter of USGBC is pleased to be a first-time host for theGreening the Heartland regional conference and to invite attendees fromthe 12-state USGBC Heartland Region and beyond to join with our manyIndiana constituents and associates for this exciting three-day event

More information at: http://www.greeningtheheartland.org/

New Deadline date for submissions: January 31st, 2012

ABOUT THE CONFERENCEThe Greening the Heartland Conference brings leaders of the green building community together for three days of sessions, exhibits and networking. More than 35 sessions will address challenges, solutions and innovations in green building, design and technology. The 2012 GTH Conference is organized around a broad theme of Building Community with an agenda designed to expand the target audience.

PRESENTATION TYPES
Presentation (75 minutes) – Speaker(s) sharing best practices, trends and proven applications.
Panel (75 minutes) - Multiple experts presenting information and responding to questions.

PROPOSAL SELECTIONSessions will be selected based on compelling content, relevance to conference objectives, presenters’ knowledge of subject, clarity of purpose, presenters’ speaking experience and performance (if applicable) and overall balance among content areas.

PRESENTER BENEFITSOne conference registration will be awarded to each selected presenter. Presenters are responsible for providing copies of handouts at their own expense.

HOW TO SUBMIT PROPOSALSPlease submit your proposal by mail or email using this form. Proposals are due December 31, 2011.

Guidelines for Selecting an Energy Analyst

2011-12-27T12:19:00.001-06:00

Ask firms these 10 questions to determine if they’re the right fit for your team
When you have decided to select an energy analyst to compliment your project team, understanding what energy analysis is will help ensure that you select a qualified professional.

Energy analysis in its broadest definition helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings and equipment through both direct metering and measurement (also called monitoring and verification) and computer simulation. Energy analysis encompasses daylighting analysis and commissioning.
Within the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) framework, energy analysis typically incorporates modeling for optimizing and predicting:

Energy performance, including HVAC, lighting, water, daylighting, and building-envelope analysis.

Thermal performance.

Ventilation effectiveness.

Occupant comfort.

Life-cycle-cost analysis.

In addition, it encompasses metering and energy analysis for ongoing monitoring and verification of building systems and calculations related to water efficiency and indoor environmental quality.

Other related areas of energy analysis and modeling include modeling of urban heat islands and urban-air-shed modeling.

The majority of energy analysis in the LEED program centers around completing a "building energy simulation model." This refers to a commercially available software program that performs hour-by-hour simulation of a building. It incorporates all building-envelope, building-system, schedule, utility-rate, cost, and weather data.

A building simulation model is required work to earn up to 20 LEED points. A computer model helps architects and engineers find the best combination of material and systems for a given set of project-specific goals, but it does not necessarily guarantee an energy-efficient building. It is a prospecting tool that, in the hands of a dedicated and experienced user, can indicate which combination of building strategies is most likely to produce a building that is energy-efficient, has the desired thermal performance, and is a comfortable and healthy environment in which to live and/or work. A properly constructed model will allow the design team to vary several different aspects of the construction and evaluate the impact these changes would have on the economic and environmental bottom line.

Firms specializing in mechanical engineering, electrical (lighting and daylighting) engineering, commissioning, or energy management are good places to start when looking for a qualified energy analyst. A firm dedicated to energy analysis may have depth of knowledge and experience in evaluating a wide range of project energy issues.

Questions to Ask When selecting an energy analyst, review the general guidelines for selecting a green design professional (see "Steps to Selecting a Sustainability Professional," HPAC Engineering, October 2011, http://bit.ly/sustainpro). Then review the 10 questions specific to energy analysis below. This guide will help you conduct a thorough selection process.

Read the 10 Questions at http://hpac.com/columns/managing-facilities/guidelines-selecting-energy-analyst-1211/

Consultant Releases Annual List of Green-Building ‘MegaTrends’

2011-12-27T08:53:00.000-06:00

Despite ongoing economic difficulties in most developed countries, the global rebound of green building will continue in 2012, green-building and sustainability consultant Jerry Yudelson predicts in his annual list of top 10 green-building “MegaTrends.”

“What we’re seeing is that more people are building green each year, and there is nothing on the horizon that will stop this MegaTrend or its constituent elements,” Yudelson, chief executive officer of Tucson, Ariz.-based Yudelson Associates, says.

Following is Yudelson’s list of the top 10 green-building trends for 2012, gleaned, he said, from conversations with green-building-industry leaders in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Australia over the past year:

1. Green building in North America will rebound in 2012. “In 2010 and 2011, the continuing slowdown in commercial real estate and the end of federal recovery funding put a crimp in new green-building projects,” Yudelson, author of 12 books on green building, says. But while the growth rate of new green-building projects fell dramatically in 2010 and 2011, domestic Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design- (LEED-) project registrations are up almost 40 percent over 2010 levels. “We see faster growth in green retrofits and notice that ongoing college and university projects and NGO (non-governmental organization) activity are serving to backstop the fall in commercial and governmental construction,” Yudelson says.

2. Green building will continue to benefit from the Obama administration’s strengthened focus on greening the executive branch, which includes a commitment to a minimum of LEED Gold certification for all federal projects and a concentration on major energy-efficiency renovations.

To read the others, visit http://hpac.com/news/megatrends-2012/.

Regional Planning Grant Award

2011-12-13T11:50:00.001-06:00

Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPA) will be awarded $2,045,000 to develop a Regional Plan for Sustainable Development. The plan will include the development of several scenarios for future growth that represent different ways of achieving equilibrium between the goals of equity, environmental sustainability, and economic growth in the future development of the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan region.

The scenarios will be developed through an extensive community engagement process at the regional, local, and neighborhood scales.

Anticipated Project Benefits: Provide citizens, policy-makers, and providers of public services with a clear and comprehensive vision, based in shared community values, of how the region should develop over the next 40 years. Illuminate the workings of the many systems that support the region and the ways in which they complement and compete with one another Grapple with ways of improving governance and the delivery of services that enhance regional livability and narrow persistent disparities in the community.
Funding Amount: $ 2,045,000

Core Partners: Nebraska: Douglas, Sarpy, Washington, and Saunders Counties; Omaha, Bellevue, La Vista, Gretna, Papillion, Blair. Iowa: Pottawattamie, Mills, and Harrison Counties; Council Bluffs

HUD Region: 7

Congressional District: NE-002

http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2011/HUDNo.11-274

ANNUAL ENERGY REVIEW 2010 RELEASE — October 19, 2011

2011-10-20T09:53:00.000-05:00

This data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) includes energy production, consumption, imports, and exports.

The Annual Energy Review 2010 (AER), released on October 19, 2011, provides EIA’s most comprehensive record of historical integrated energy statistics. Preliminary summary statistics from the report indicate the following:

• U.S. primary energy consumption rose to 98 quadrillion Btu in 2010, 4% above the previous year’s level. U.S. natural gas, coal, and renewable energy consumption each increased 6%, with natural gas reaching a record high of 25 quadrillion Btu.

• In 2010, U.S. primary energy production reached a record high of 75 quadrillion Btu, a 3% increase from the previous year.

• In 2010, total U.S. energy consumption increased in each of the four end-use sectors: residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation. Industrial consumption increased 6% above the previous year’s level, residential consumption increased 5%, and commercial and transportation consumption each increased 2%.

• From 2009 to 2010, U.S. primary energy net imports fell 5% to 22 quadrillion Btu. Petroleum net imports totaled 20 quadrillion Btu in 2010.

• U.S. carbon dioxide emissions from energy consumption rose 4% from 2009 to 2010.

The Annual Energy Review 2010 covers all major energy sources and all energy-consuming sectors of the U.S. economy from 1949 through 2010. See What’s New in the AER for a summary of changes to this year’s publication. See the full report, in pdf, html, and Excel formats, at Annual Energy Review.

10-Question Insulation Quiz

2011-10-19T08:47:00.000-05:00

Reproduced from GreenSpec, (answers follow).

1. Which of the following has the highest R-value per inch of any common insulation material?

A. high-density rigid mineral wool
B. foil-faced polyisocyanurate
C. cellular glass
D. higher-density expanded polystyrene

2. Which of the following is a good residential cavity choice when air quality is a primary concern?

A. dense-packed cellulose
B. dense-packed wool
C. dense-packed fiberglass
D. all of the above

3. Perlite is a good choice for attic floor insulation when…

A. moisture accumulation is a concern
B. a low-density version is available regionally
C. wind washing is an issue
D. none of the above

4. The material with the strongest performance characteristics for sub-slab applications is…

A. polyisocyanurate boardstock
B. rigid fiberglass
C. cellular glass
D. rigid mineral wool

5. Which insulation material requires the largest energy inputs?

A. sheep’s wool
B. cotton
C. polyester
D. they all require about the same energy input

6. Which of the following insulation materials is airtight enough to be the dedicated air barrier?

A. Cellulose
B. fiberglass batt
C. mineral wool
D. none of the above

7. Which of the following insulation materials is the least vapor permeable?

A. closed-cell polyurethane
B. extruded polystyrene
C. expanded polystyrene
D. cellulose

8. In order for a radiant barrier to be effective, it must:

A. face inward
B. face outward
C. face an open space
D. have continuous contact with the surface of the insulation material

9. Which vehicle for water movement generally represents the highest priority?

A. bulk water
B. capillary water
C. air-transported moisture
D. vapor diffusion

10. In order for the air and thermal barriers to be most effective, the air barrier must be:

A. interior to the thermal barrier
B. exterior to the thermal barrier
C. in continuous contact with the thermal barrier
D. the location of the air barrier does not have to relate to the location of the thermal barrier

Answers: 1. (B), 2. (B), 3. (B), 4. (C), 5. (A), 6. (D), 7. (A), 8. (C), 9. (A), 10. (C)

REGREEN 301: Implementing Residential Remodeling Workshop

2011-10-03T10:28:00.000-05:00

Date: Friday, November 4th
Time: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Location: Carl T. Curtis Midwest Regional Headquarters of the National Park Service (601 Riverfront Drive Omaha, NE 86102)

View the Event Flier at: http://usgbcne.org/downloads/2011-11-04%20Omaha%20REGREEN.pdf

REGREEN 301 will be offered in Omaha on Friday, November 4! If you have been considering becoming REGREEN Certified or if you simply would like to expand your knowledge about green design strategies, REGREEN is for you. This is a terrific opportunity to distinguish yourself as a green residential remodeling professional, and its coming to you, right here in Omaha!

This full-day workshop builds on foundational knowledge of the REGREEN Residential Remodeling Guidelines and available online courses and will assist you in identifying and evaluating which green considerations, concepts and strategies will make a meaningful and positive impact on your next project.

The workshop is designed for a dynamic group of design and construction professionals, from remodeling contractors to interior designers, who pride themselves on implementing green strategies.

Participants are invited to bring their own prospective projects to the course and will work in organized groups of multi-disciplinary professionals to apply the strategies discussed to real world projects. The hands-on and integrative nature of the course creates a true and unique workshop experience. The presence of two USGBC Faculty members, one with an Interior Design background and one with a Remodeling Contractor background, fosters a dynamic learning experience and integrative prospective.

Facilitators and participants will discuss the unique factors inherent in retrofit projects as well as the appropriateness and implementation of green strategies pertaining to site, foundation, building envelope, all major residential systems and equipment, applicable renewable energies, space utilization, finished surfaces, and furnishings and fittings. Two case studies woven into the workshop will help illustrate key concepts and strategies as they relate to two radically different climate conditions.

This full-day workshop is a required step in becoming REGREEN Trained, a comprehensive education program that allows you to differentiate yourself in the residential remodeling marketplace (see REGREEN website for details). Providing 7 hours of continuing education, the workshop may also be utilized to maintain various industry credentials.

This is a 300-level course with mandatory prerequisites. See www.regreenprogram.org/learning-programs/REGREEN-workshop for mandatory prerequisites.

*If you have a building science background, you may substitute HERS, CHEERS, or BPI certification for these classes.

Learning Objectives
· Employ building science principles and whole-house systems approach on residential remodeling projects.
· Implement residential green remodeling strategies on your next project.
· Conduct a value-based, ROI analysis for common green remodeling strategies.
· Obtain green business development resources.

$249 for ASID and USGBC members
$299 for non-members

Register at www.regreenprogram.org/registration-information

Credential Maintenance Units:
GBCI CE Hours 7
AIA/CES (LU) 7
BOMI (CPD) 7
CoreNet (CPD) 7
CSI (CEU) .7
IDCEC (CEU) .7
NARI Green (CEU) .7

If you have any questions please contact Shawn Parmley ASID, LEED AP ID+C at 402-850-0928 or parmleydesign@cox.net

Policy Change that May Affect 2011 ENERGY STAR Certifications

2011-09-02T13:13:00.000-05:00

EPA is adopting a policy that will change the year of your ENERGY STAR certification. Currently, the display year is based on the 12-month period ending date listed on your Statement of Energy Performance (SEP). However, for all label applications approved on or after January 1, 2012, the certification year will be based on the year during which your label application is approved, regardless of the SEP period ending date. The purpose of this change is to align the year that displays on your label with the calendar year in which it was approved. This change will make it easier for you and EPA to communicate and celebrate your award with the public.

In order for you to earn a 2011 award, your application must be approved by December 31, 2011. EPA will guarantee an on-time approval for all applications that are postmarked by November 15, 2011 and that require no additional questions or follow-up by EPA. Applications approved after December 31 will earn a 2012 award.

If you received a 2010 award with an SEP dated in the last four months of 2010, your building(s) might not have been eligible to apply for 2011 certification in time, so all affected buildings have been reset to be eligible as of August 31, 2011. This means that you have from August 31 to November 15 to submit your 2011 application for ENERGY STAR certification. If you wait longer than that, you will most likely receive a certification for the year 2012.

Please remember to have your application postmarked by November 15, 2011.

If you have any questions about this change, please contact buildings@energystar.gov.

USGBC NFC Summer Member Appreciation Event

2011-09-01T11:00:00.000-05:00

We're thankful to have so many active, engaged USGBC members at the local level (that's you!) and as a thank-you, the chapter is hosting a fall member appreciation event on Friday September 23rd.

First, we'll tour the new TD Ameritrade Park (1200 Mike Fahey Street) in downtown Omaha. Designers and contractors will be on hand to answer questions and discuss the project.

After the tour, the chapter will provide appetizers & drinks at the Mattress Factory Bar & Grill (501 North 13th Street)... because it's Friday, after all.

The tour starts officially at 4:00pm, but plan on arriving no later than 3:45pm.

Park and meet in Lot C (enter the lot from Fahey Street) and we will walk as a group to the Admin Office (1200 Mike Fahey Street).

RSVP’s are required by the ballpark – no later than the 20th please – send to communications@usgbcne.org.

reEnergize Program Update

2011-08-31T09:37:00.000-05:00

More information at http://reenergizeprogram.org/.

Together, let us improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency, rejuvenate commercial buildings, create jobs, and reinvest in our communities.

Residential

The pilot group of 30 energy evaluations have been complete, and program participants are moving forward to have energy upgrades installed in their homes. Our pool of pre-qualified energy evaluators are currently working through their first contracted evaluations with the program, with an additional bundle set to be released for bidding tomorrow. Contractors who have met the program guidelines for qualifications and training are eligible to bid on bundles of contracts. If you like to become a pre-qualifed energy evaluator, please fill out the Energy Evaluator Application online.

Participants who have had evaluations completed are currently being scheduled for energy upgrade work. Similar to the evaluation process, the pilot group of upgrade work is being completed which will allow the program to make sure our standards, communication channels, and online tools are fully functional prior to contracted work beginning. There is a significant need for contractors who have training and experience with energy upgrades, and course work for both Weatherization Installers and Crew Chiefs has been developed specifically to meet the qualifications of the reEnergize Program. Please visit the Metropolitan Community College Weatherization Training Center to learn more about the available courses.

Energy Upgrade Contractors who meet the qualifications described in the program technical documents should,

- Fill out the Interested Contractor Form

- Contact the reEnergize Program if you have any questions, contractor@reEnergizeProgram.org

- Complete the Energy Upgrade Contractor Application (printed on paper and filled out)

- Mail completed applications to:

reEnergize Program
1819 Farnam Street
Suite 311
Omaha, NE 68183

Commercial

The commercial and nonprofit section of our program website is now posted publicly. We are looking for building owners in the Start Zones who see the benefit to their bottom line from saving energy, making their work environment more safe and healthy, and developing a comprehensive Sustainability Action Plan. If you know of a business who would be interested in participating, please guide them to the Commercial/Nonprofit Intake Form.

Contractors who are interested in completing commercial energy evaluations for the reEnergize Program should fill out the Interested Contractor Form. Questions about the this portion of the program should be addressed to contractor@reEnergizeProgram.org.

LEED 2012 Public Comments Round-table

2011-08-31T07:56:00.000-05:00

As you may know, the next version of the LEED Rating System, LEED 2012, is currently open for a second public comment. In an effort to provide the more comprehensive feedback to the USGBC, M.E. GROUP (along with USGBC Nebraska Flatwater Chapter) is hosting a LEED 2012 Public Comments Round-table focusing on the LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations rating system. (Download the event flier here.)

Please join us on Thursday, September 8th from 4-6pm for wine and cheese, a discussion of the major changes proposed for LEED 2012, and breakout sessions by category to generate feedback comments for USGBC. The group will document each comment and submit as a whole.

This event will be held at the office of M.E. GROUP, 8040 Davenport Street, Omaha, NE. (Location subject to change based on attendance).

M.E. GROUP staff will present an overview of the major proposed changes to the LEED 2012 rating system to facilitate a conversation of pros, cons and recommendations. While this round-table is focusing on New Construction & Major Renovations, we can apply our comments to other rating systems as applicable.

This event is free and open to the green building community. We welcome your perspective and expertise.

Please RSVP by September 6th to Brad Carne at 402-334-2155 or brad.carne@megroup.com

More information on LEED Rating System development is available online at http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=2360.

A summary of changes from the 1st LEED 2012 public comment to the 2nd public comment as well as changes from LEED 2009 to LEED 2012 2nd public comment is available at http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=2521.

U.S. Small Business Administration Certified Trade Mission

2011-08-31T07:47:00.000-05:00

Certified Trade Mission - “Intelligent Buildings: Putting the Pieces Together”
Trade Mission • Green Building Conference • Matchmaking Services

The mission flyer is available online.

Who: U.S.‐based companies interested in expanding their business in France.
When: October 9–13, 2011
What: A multifaceted trade mission that includes site visits, an international conference, and matchmaking services.
Where: Paris, France

This trade mission is focusing on small businesses in the “Green Building” industry sector, and 12-15 U.S. companies will be asked to join SBA’s Deputy Administrator Marie Johns on this mission; that was requested by SBA from our U.S. Ambassador in Paris.

The U.S. Foreign Commercial Service will actually be doing their Gold Key Matchmaking between the U.S. companies and French business and government sector buyers.

The Questionnaire/Company Profile Form needs to be completed and returned no later than September 7th by companies hoping to be included, and sent back to SBA. They will then be sent to Paris for evaluation to determine the opportunities of finding pre-qualified buyers/partners small business participants.

As for the cost of the mission: it is estimated that in addition to the Commerce Department fee for the gold key (usually $700 but could be reduced in half for first-time small business users of this service); there is airfare, lodging and meals + personal expenses, so the total can be approximately $5,000 per company sending just the CEO or other company decision-maker. One additional person from a firm can attend with no additional Gold Key fee, only the travel, etc.

It is critically important that any participating company should send the CEO or other decision-maker in the firm. There have been many deals consummated during trade missions, but a certain deal breaker is when the attending company representative cannot answer a prospective buyer’s questions.

Please contact Richard Ginsburg, Senior International Trade Specialist, Public Affairs, Office of International Trade, U.S. Small Business Administration at (202) 205-7429 , should you have further questions.

CMP and LEED AP Enrollment Windows Closing Soon

2011-08-11T09:31:00.000-05:00

LEED Professionals: Remember that GBCI and My Credentials are the sources for all of your CMP and enrollment information. Log in to http://www.gbci.org/mycredentials to check your enrollment window. Find ERB-approved courses at https://www.usgbc.org/coursecatalog/coursecatalog.aspx.

Green Home Tour 2011 - SAVE THE DATE!

2011-08-03T10:10:00.001-05:00

When: Saturday, October 15th
Where: The Harper Center, Creighton University

The 2011 Green Home Tour and Expo, sponsored by the GOC in conjunction with Creighton University and the USGBC Flatwater Chapter, will highlight the benefits of sustainable design within both individual homes and the larger community. Showcasing homes in East Omaha, this year’s tour focuses on urban re-development, walk-able neighborhoods and mixed-use design. The expo provides Omaha residents a chance to meet with green product vendors and listen to presentations on a range of green topics, including Omaha's reEnergize Program. There will also be opportunities to learn about and explore Creighton’s numerous sustainable initiatives, including its solar array and wind turbine installations. Shuttle services will be provided for the home tour, or you can join our organized cyclists’ tour!

For information on volunteer opportunities or how to become a green product vendor, contact Megan Lutz at mlutz@dlrgroup.com.

Job Opportunity | MCC is seeking 2 part-time Sustainability Champions through AmeriCorps

2011-08-03T09:22:00.000-05:00

You can download the full description below, but here are the logistics:

* 2 part-time positions
* 20 hours/week to be completed weekdays between 8a.m.-5p.m. (attendance at some evening/weekend events may be required)
* Earliest Start Date: September 1, 2011. AmeriCorps is a one-year, 900-hour commitment through August 31, 2012.
* Successful applicants are eligible for up to 18 credit hours of tuition assistance at MCC
* Monthly living stipend from AmeriCorps
* Education Award from AmeriCorps upon completion of 900 hours. Amount: $2,250 for eligible education expenses such as future education or paying back student loans.

Download the full job description here.

Please e-mail resume and cover letter to: Daniel Lawse (djlawse@mccneb.edu) and Penny Boykins (pboykins@mccneb.edu).

City’s Office of Sustainable Development hosting an Open House on final draft of the Comprehensive Energy Management Plan

2011-07-14T15:35:00.000-05:00

Omaha’s Office of Sustainable Development invites Omaha citizens to attend an open house regarding the final draft version of the Comprehensive Energy Management Plan (CEMP).

The city, along with the consultants who developed the plan, will be available to provide an overview of the CEMP and answer any questions. Over the past year, Brendle Group, a professional energy management firm based in Colorado, has been compiling energy, greenhouse gas, and ozone-related data to create a baseline for Omaha’s current energy use, at the community-wide level and as a municipal organization.

The CEMP includes a full Energy Profile for the city and several components critical for strategic implementation of Omaha’s Environment Element. The CEMP Open House is scheduled for Thursday, July 28, 2011, at W. Dale Clark Library, 215 S 15th Street, Omaha NE 68102. Interested citizens are invited to stop by anytime between the hours of 1–3 pm and 5–7 pm. Refreshments will be provided.

Please call 402-444-6731 if you have any questions, or visit http://www.cityofomaha.org/ecomaha/services/projects/comprehensive-energy-management-plan-cemp.

Green Living Workshop: Do Your Own Energy Audit

2011-07-12T08:14:00.000-05:00

Call 402.457.5231 to register by this Friday.

Taught by OPPD's Energy Solutions Specialist, this class is a great start to cutting your energy bills at home.

Home Energy: Do Your Own Energy Audit
Have you wondered what energy upgrades you could do in your own home? Learn how to improve comfort and health and save energy in your home. Learn how to conduct your own home energy audit to identify energy saving opportunities in your home and what you can do to cut your energy use and utility bill while improving comfort. This class is taught in partnership with OPPD’s Energy Information Center

Date: Tuesday, July 19
Time: 6-8PM
Cost: $19
Location: Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
Course Number: 175885 (HOMI-046N-01)

Nebraska Green Jobs Report

2011-07-06T09:59:00.000-05:00

The Office of Labor Market Information has released the Nebraska Green Jobs Report. You can obtain the Report, along with other green jobs research conducted by the Bureau of Business Research at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, on the Office of Labor Market’s website at http://neworks.nebraska.gov/analyzer/default.asp. The Green Jobs Report is under the drop down menu of Nebraska Green Jobs Research under the Publications section of the website.

Urban Village Launching Major Park Avenue Redevelopment Project

2011-07-06T08:06:00.001-05:00

OMAHA, Neb., July, 5, 2011 - A key player in the push to revitalize Midtown Omaha is outlining plans - and earning high praise - for its latest redevelopment project. Omaha-based Urban Village Development has purchased eight distressed buildings along Park Avenue (from Mason Street to St. Marys Avenue) with the aim of giving them second life as upscale apartment houses.

"We started doing this three years ago. We buy distressed or vacant buildings and rebuild them from the inside out. The shell is the historic building, but inside you have everything you'd see in new construction - from new framing and plumbing to new electrical and mechanical systems. We're not knocking down buildings. It's basically rebuilding a building inside a building," explained Scott Semrad, partner, Urban Village Development.

The Park Avenue project will eventually yield 137 market rate apartments. Semrad, who runs the company with partner Jerry Reimer, expects the first buildings to be tenant-ready in December with the entire build out completed between early to mid-2013.
"What we're really doing is taking the biggest liability on the street and, hopefully, turning it into the biggest asset," said Semrad.

To date, Urban Village has renovated 15 buildings and completed 210 apartment units in Midtown Omaha, all within a half-mile radius of the new Midtown Crossing development. Just last year, Urban Village received one of Destination Midtown's "Best of Midtown" awards for its revitalization efforts.

"I consider us part of a partnership with Destination Midtown, Mutual of Omaha, the city's code enforcement teams, the neighborhood associations, and the Midtown Business Association. All of these entities have created the conditions of change in these neighborhoods that allow developers like us to come in and do market-rate projects where three or four years ago it would've been hard to justify spending the capital," said Semrad.

Those same entities are praising the development company's latest endeavor.

Words can't describe how excited we are about the work being done in the area. This is a very uplifting project because it exemplifies so many facets of the original Destination Midtown plan such as community reinvestment and revitalization. It will be the sort of catalyst that can breathe new life into a district that is conveniently located near many great amenities in the Midtown and downtown areas," said Jim Champion, a member of the Destination Midtown advisory board, owner of midtown's Charlie Graham Body and Service, and former executive director of the Midtown Business Association.

He added, "Once people explore the Park Avenue district, there will surely be other projects and opportunities in the future."

"Residents, small business owners and nonprofits in the Park Avenue area are invested in the community's future," said Jamie Grayson-Berglund, director of community development for the Greater Omaha Chamber. "While a number of challenges have faced the neighborhood, many positive things have happened and are planned for the future. Projects like St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church's expansion, the new streetscape on St. Marys Avenue, the Kent Bellows Studio renovation, and the plans for the new inCOMMON Community Development community center - all indicate that this is a great place to live and grow."

In reference to the Urban Village project, she added, "It is so gratifying to see what was once a concept in the Park Avenue Redevelopment Study actually come to fruition." The study, guided by community input, was completed in 2008 and has served as a master plan for directing investment in the neighborhood.

Jim Thompson, president of the Leavenworth Neighborhood Association, described Urban Village's Park Avenue project as "fantastic."

"These properties have been an eyesore for too many years," he said. "Even when they were active with tenants years past, the living conditions and negative effect on the quality of that part of the neighborhood was horrible. The efforts of the neighborhood association and the Omaha Police Department were continually burdened with the nasty lifestyle that permeated these buildings. Change has taken too long, but we are most grateful that it will be a positive and enduring adventure."

Both Thompson and Semrad credited the $325 million Midtown Crossing development with serving as a catalyst for positive change in the area.

"The domino effect from Midtown Crossing is being felt at all corners of the Leavenworth neighborhood, and it is all good," said Thompson.

Semrad said, "One of Midtown Crossing's goals was to create a ripple effect of investment. I think we were a ripple effect around Midtown Crossing, and as we've gone and done projects, we've seen ripple effects around us."

Ken Cook, the president of East Campus Realty LLC (the Mutual of Omaha subsidiary that owns Midtown Crossing) has praised the work of Urban Village.

"Through Urban Village, the efforts of Scott Semrad and Jerry Reimer have truly exemplified a fervent commitment to the Midtown neighborhood as well as the entire Omaha community. We are very gratified by their work," he said.

Semrad said he and Reimer feel very fortunate to be contributing to Midtown Omaha and its rebirth.

"There's a lot of passion from all those groups that are working to revitalize Midtown, and we're just lucky to be included in a piece of it," he said.In addition to its impact on the neighborhood, the Park Avenue project will have a significant impact on the local economy. Semrad estimates construction will entail more than 125,000 labor hours. With all of its projects, Urban Village handles the development, the general contracting and all of the property management. To view the company's portfolio of properties, visit http://uvomaha.com.

Help Assess Your Own Neighborhood and Complete a Green Neighborhood Scorecard

2011-06-29T09:05:00.001-05:00

Submittal Deadline: Wednesday, August 31st

The 2011 Green Neighborhood Scorecard is now ready for download or can be filled out online. The accompanying Resource Guide provides helpful advice and tips concerning how to assess neighborhood environmental and sustainability factors, where improvements might be made, and how to begin that process.

Neighborhoods that complete and submit the Scorecard will help the Green Neighborhood Council do the following:
• Assess current livability and environmental sustainability of Omaha neighborhoods
• Determine resources needed by Omaha neighborhoods to achieve greater livability and sustainability
• Develop practical projects to support the creation and advancement of green neighborhoods
• Establish a baseline to help you measure your neighborhood’s environmental progress.
Neighborhoods with high scores will be announced at the Green Home Tour 2011 on Saturday, October 15th, and prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be awarded: $300, $250, and $200, respectively.

Cleaner Greener Lincoln uses federal stimulus money for many projects

2011-06-28T14:09:00.000-05:00

Contrary to popular belief, it's buildings, not cars, that are the biggest energy users.

That's why Lincoln's broad sustainability program -- Cleaner Greener Lincoln -- focuses on buildings, says Milo Mumgaard, senior aide to Lincoln Mayor Chris Beutler.

Transportation is responsible for about 36 percent of the overall energy use in the city, Mumgaard said.

The rest occurs inside buildings -- homes, industrial and commercial buildings -- based on city Planning Department analysis.

So the Cleaner Greener Lincoln program is helping reduce energy costs in buildings by installing 8,000 LED lighting products in city-owned structures; encouraging home owners to caulk windows, use more efficient light bulbs and add insulation; and helping non-profits pay for fuel-efficient heating and air-conditioning systems.

Cleaner Greener Lincoln is using about $5.4 million in federal stimulus funding on 19 activities -- from replacing all city traffic signal lights with LED products to revising building codes so they encourage green building practices.

The federal funds first became available in December 2009.

The last penny must be spent by the end of May 2013.

Read more: http://journalstar.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/article_53c481f2-3477-5ee9-9fca-2e925ed0bbe1.html#ixzz1QbGcirxe

Greenbuild Announces 2011 Programming & Scholarship

2011-06-24T09:12:00.000-05:00

The education program is live for the 2011 Greenbuild International Conference and Expo, being held Oct. 4-7 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Featuring more than 90 education sessions, this year's education program is packed with the latest information you need to thrive in the green building industry. Once you've registered for Greenbuild use the scheduler to secure your seat in the education sessions of your choosing.

All concurrent education sessions have been approved for GBCI and AIA CE hours, and many courses are LEED-specific. Check the scheduler for more information about CE credit.

Register for Greenbuild »
Reserve your education sessions & learn about CE credit »

Greenbuild offers you ways to capitalize on your time at the show beyond the slate of top-notch education. From the pre-show USGBC LEED Workshops to the off-site education sessions to the green building tours coordinated by the Canada Green Building Council and the expansive exhibit hall, you will leave Greenbuild with the information you need to take on what's next.
Learn more about Greenbuild Events »

Greenbuild Scholarship Program
Designed for low-income individuals entering into the green building industry the Greenbuild Scholarship Program provides all-inclusive trips to the Greenbuild International Conference to those without the means to attend. Greenbuild is the ideal setting for those new to the green building industry to learn from green building experts, discover innovative technologies and companies that are transforming the industry, and to form worthwhile relationships within the green building movement.

Learn about requirements and apply »

Draft Revised WaterSense Product Certification System

2011-06-23T16:26:00.001-05:00

In March 2009, EPA released Version 1.0 of the WaterSense Product Certification System to guide its independent, third-party product certification process. Since that time more than 3,500 tank-type toilets, bathroom sink faucets and faucet accessories, showerheads, and flushing urinals have been certified to meet EPA’s criteria for efficiency and performance.

As the WaterSense program continues to grow and expand to cover new product categories, EPA has identified several changes that are necessary to improve the certification process and balance the cost and burden of certification with the rigor the program needs to maintain the WaterSense label’s integrity. Additionally, since the initial release of the product certification system, EPA released its Third-Party Certification Procedures for the ENERGY STAR® program, which went into effect January 1, 2011. In order to facilitate future joint-labeling opportunities with ENERGY STAR, where appropriate, EPA has revised the WaterSense product certification system to complement ENERGY STAR’s system. With these changes, EPA’s goal is to better focus the resources of the WaterSense program and accommodate future growth.

EPA is accepting written comments on the Draft Revised Product Certification System through July 25, 2011, and will hold a public meeting via webinar and conference call on July 13, 2011, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. EST to discuss the draft revisions. To review the Draft Revised Product Certification System or for information on how to submit comments, please visit the WaterSense website.

LEED APs facing deadline to add a specialty to their green building credential

2011-06-23T14:54:00.000-05:00

Washington, D.C. (June 23, 2011)– Time is running out for LEED APs to take advantage of a limited opportunity to add a specialty to their green building credential for free. The staggered enrollment windows close beginning in August. Specialties identify a LEED AP’s expertise within a specific segment of green building practice, and each directly aligns with a LEED rating system. The LEED AP with specialty is available for Building Design + Construction, Interior Design + Construction, and Operations + Maintenance, Neighborhood Development and Homes.

Following the introduction of specialty designations to the LEED AP credential, all LEED APs who tested between 2001 and June 2009 were offered a two-year window of opportunity during which they may earn the new specialty credential without having to take the full exam — and at no cost. LEED APs must enroll by this deadline, but they will have two years upon enrollment to complete the required education hours to earn the specialty.

The LEED AP with specialty credentials allow green building professionals to demonstrate their proficiency in a specialized field within green building. Maintained through 30 hours of flexible continuing education every two years, the specialty credentials ensure that credential holders are keeping pace with the rapidly evolving body of knowledge around green building design, construction and operations. They allow professionals to grow their skills and show clients and employers that their expertise and sustainability knowledge is current and meaningful in today’s dynamic green building marketplace. Industry professionals who hold LEED AP with specialty credentials are frequently sought out in hiring announcements and requests for proposals. Additionally, all candidates for the LEED Fellow distinction, which honors the most accomplished green building practitioners in the field, must hold a LEED AP with specialty credential to be eligible for nomination.

Alexa Stone, LEED AP O+M and Principal with Florida-based ecoPreserve, enrolled to add the Operations + Maintenance specialty to her credential last year. “My specialty credential confirms my experience in implementing upgrades and process innovations to improve the operations of existing buildings,” said Stone. “It also qualifies me to work with organizations that are not yet ready to move directly to LEED certification but do want to take strategic steps toward increased sustainability.”

There are two enrollment pathways by which LEED APs may add a specialty. To add the LEED AP Operations + Maintenance, Building Design + Construction, or Interior Design + Construction specialties, LEED APs can enroll into prescriptive credential maintenance, which allows them to begin using the LEED AP with specialty title immediately. They will then complete 30 hours of prescriptive continuing education within their first two-year reporting period.

The second path to adding the specialty credential is through retesting. During their enrollment window, LEED APs can add the specialty by taking just the specialty portion of any one of the new LEED AP exams.LEED APs who do not add a specialty to their credential during this enrollment period will retain their listing as a LEED AP without specialty in the LEED Professional Directory. However, should they decide to become a LEED AP with specialty after the enrollment period closes, they will need to meet all eligibility requirements, pay applicable fees, and pass the full exam.

The Green Building Certification Institute’s (GBCI) credential maintenance program (CMP) is unique among other continuing education programs in that it offers eight flexible options for earning hours, ranging from working on LEED projects to reading case studies to taking professional development courses. LEED Professionals can often earn hours while performing activities they are already doing for their jobs.

“I qualify for most of my continuing education hours from my involvement with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Chapter Committees, training and instruction I provide, the classes I took at Greenbuild and managing LEED certification on one of my projects, the Orange County Convention Center,” said Stone. LEED APs with specialty can earn up to a third of their CMP hours for their work on LEED projects alone.

Current LEED APs looking to take advantage of the limited-time opportunity to enroll into the specialty credential will find relevant information on prescriptive CMP requirements and testing options in the new CMP Wizard.

Maintaining LEED Professional Credentials is especially relevant in today’s economic climate. The practice of green building is in high demand, with more than one million square feet of construction space certifying to the LEED rating system every day. Earlier this month, President Obama introduced the Better Buildings Initiative, which provides incentives for green building. Green building demand is expected to rise greatly as building owners take advantage of the momentum afforded by the President’s new policy, which catalyzes private-sector investment through a series of incentives to upgrade offices, stores, schools and universities, hospitals and other commercial and municipal buildings.

“Green building is a critical element to a jobs creation program,” said Peter Templeton, President, GBCI. “Professionals who are knowledgeable about green building and the LEED process are today, more than ever, being sought after by employers, clients and project teams.”

View article...

The Nine Types of Greenwashing

2011-06-23T14:04:00.000-05:00

by Tristan Roberts, via BuildingGreen.com

Most of the greenwashing we see falls into one of these nine types. Here are tips on how to spot them.

I am going to go out on a limb here, but I would bet that sometime in the last 24 hours you have received a marketing message centered around how "green," how "environmentally friendly," or (if it's really serious), how "sustainable" something is.

Whether or not we believe in these claims is a matter of some debate. The 2011 Cone Green Gap Trend Tracker found that an 97% of Americans believe they know what common environmental marketing claims such as "green" or "environmentally friendly" mean. Apparently we have seen enough of these claims to know what they're all about.

But do we? Our interpretations are often inaccurate, according to the researchers. More than two in five of us (41%) erroneously believe that these terms mean a product has a beneficial impact on the environment. Only about one in three (29%) understand that these terms more accurately describe products with reduced environmental impact compared with competing products.

That study seems to indicate a lot of willingness to believe what the marketers tell us. However, a study from the U.K. has a somewhat different story to tell. In that study, by the Carbon Trust, only 7% of respondents take companies at their word when they say that they are reducing their climate impacts. More than half (53%) say they are concerned that companies make one-time improvements to win publicity, before returning to business as usual. Did the study ask different questions, or are the Brits more skeptical?

Sorting out the green from the greenwash has become a necessity for U.S. consumers. To help, my colleague Jennifer Atlee and I have developed a guide to common problems: we cleverly named it "Nine Types of Greenwashing" when we included it in our dare-I-say essential report on green building product certifications. We also have eagle eyes for these types of issues when we are setting standards and selecting green products for our GreenSpec product guide

Here are the nine types.

1.) Green by Association

A company slathers itself and its marketing thoroughly in environmental terms and images so that even if its products have no environmental benefits, consumers associate them with positive environmental attributes. Examples: Gas-guzzling cars and trucks pictured in remote natural settings, or housing developments named for natural features that they have destroyed, e.g., "Conifer Lane."

View article for more...

Omaha Business Breaking Ground For New Campus

2011-06-22T13:45:00.000-05:00

From WOWT.com

A groundbreaking ceremony will be held Wednesday at the future home of a new 208,000-square-foot, two-building corporate campus at the northwest intersection of 180th Street and West Dodge Road.

The two three-story buildings will house more than 1,100 CSG employees and will feature sustainable design and building methods including day lighting, water-efficient fixtures, energy-efficient HVAC designs, automated energy controls for lights and water and more.

CSG Systems has been a long-time employer of Nebraska and Metro area residents since the company’s inception in 1994.

The company now employs more than 1,300 employees in Omaha, many of whom will move from the company’s main location on North 117th Ave to occupy the new location.

Construction on the new location is scheduled to begin this month and be completed in August 2012.

Using the LEED Pilot Credit Library

2011-06-20T16:02:00.000-05:00

via LEEDUser.com

About the LEED pilot credit library
According to USGBC on its LEED Pilot Credit Library page, the LEED Pilot Credit Library is intended to facilitate the introduction of new credits to LEED. The process allows projects to test more innovative credits that haven't been through the complete drafting and balloting process.

Projects who want to participate in a credit pilot need to register with USGBC on this page. Questions about pilot credits can be directed to USGBC at pilot@usgbc.org

For more information on the pilot credits, including language and submittal requirements, LEEDuser has a complete credit-by-credit guide

Earning the credits: trying is no longer enough

All LEED projects can earn points for piloting credits through IDc1 (or IOc1 for EBOM projects). To earn a point, projects must do the following.

- Comply with the credit requirements. Note that when the Pilot Credit Library was launched, it was enough to try to comply, but it has become more difficult: actual achievement according to the language is now necessary, with one exception....

- You can fail to achieve a pilot credit, and still earn a point through IDc1, if you demonstrate that the credit is "broken," or unusable by all projects, or certain projects, in its current form.

- You can demonstrate this by showing that metrics are unachievable with current technology, and providing more suitable metrics; by showing that credit requirements are contradictory, and providing suggested revisions; or showing that requirements result in an outcome antithetical to LEED, and providing an alternative that better meets the intent. The idea is that if the credit is not working, the project should help improve it.

- Complete the required documentation.

- Actively participate on related conference calls.

- Provide thorough data on their use of the credit.

- Submit additional feedback to USGBC as requested.

- Participate in the LEEDuser forum for the credit you're working on

Rating system limitations

USGBC only makes certain pilot credits available to certain applicable rating systems. Here is a full chart showing which credits are available to which systems

About LEEDuser's pilot credit pages

LEEDuser is a website, unaffiliated with USGBC or GBCI, that offers how-to help on achieving LEED credits. Through a special arrangement with USGBC, LEEDuser has posted the official language of the LEED pilot credits in order to make it more accessible to interested project teams.

We at LEEDuser encourage project teams using them or thinking about using them to discuss them and share experiences in the comments area on each of the credit pages.

Because these pilot credits are so new, LEEDuser does not provide the kind of how-to guidance on these pages that we normally include on our credit pages. To see LEEDuser's guidance on standard LEED credits, please view our credit listings page

LEED Pilot Credit to Promote Product Transparency—Not Performance

2011-06-20T09:36:00.000-05:00

via LEEDuser.com

USGBC wants to increase product transparency through certifications, but will its members buy the idea that approved standards are not being endorsed?

In its newly released Pilot Credit 43, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has created a new incentive for product manufacturers to obtain third-party certification of their environmental claims, and to release environmental footprint data. The new credit is available for use immediately and applies to all the Building Design & Construction and Interiors Design & Construction LEED rating systems, such as LEED-NC and LEED-CI. The credit includes two parallel tracks: products can either be certified to approved standards or manufacturers can offer product data in approved formats.

For more information on this pilot credit, including disclosure, performance vs. transparency, and different rewards for different certifications, read the full article at LEEDuser.com

Also read:
Pilot Credit 43: Certified Products
LEEDuser's commentary on Pilot Credit 43

As Green Building Codes and Standards Emerge – Where Do We Go from Here?

2011-06-16T14:27:00.000-05:00

Jeremy Sigmon, LEED® AP BD+C, Manager, Building Codes Advocacy, U.S. Green Building Council

The success of the LEED green building rating systems in driving amazing amounts of green building activity focus on a broader spectrum of human and environmental health issues and leadership in achieving a more sustainable future has created space for many other conversations to take place – from the bleeding edge to the minimum code level. A year after the launch of a previously unimaginable code framework, Standard 189.1 to advance regulatory change towards better, greener building practice, where are we? And where do we go from here?

The industry is abuzz with questions about how a green building code may change their business outlook, change the laws or even change the world. There’s no doubt that broadly-applied minimum regulations for better, healthier, more efficient and environmentally sensitive building practices necessarily push a lot of buildings, professions and professionals forward. For jurisdictions that are interested in upping their minimum requirements, USGBC is encouraged that there are now tools available to facilitate that critical piece of the green building policy puzzle.

But there is nothing gained by added confusion, or by a diminished understanding of what a green building is or aspires to be. Codes can do an effective job of delivering minimum performance – and that’s important. But if you’re looking for a non-mandatory approach to build greener buildings, a green building code is not designed for you.

As we draft the updates to LEED, there is so much progress that we can point to as reasons to keep driving onward toward restorative and regenerative buildings and communities. We invite you to participate in that development (LEED is re-opening for second public comment on July 1, 2011) and also in the final rounds of development of these green building codes and standards. The balance is nuanced but codes and rating systems fundamentally serve different functions, and we need to focus on improving all of them so that they each may fulfill their maximum potential. Neither one nor the other alone is as strong as both push and pull forces working collaboratively.

It’s not a choice between codes or rating systems – one is a decidedly rigid mandatory minimum (with a handful of jurisdictional and performance pathways built in) and the other a leadership engagement tool that intentionally (and in its next version, increasingly) steps out of the way of design professionals to innovate and improve green building outcomes. We need both improved minimum codes and voluntary beyond-code rating systems to get the job done (see related policy brief).

Clearly the only way to go from here is onward, which is what USGBC intends to do. We hope you’ll work with us to achieve truly sustainable buildings and communities using all the best tools for the job.

For more information, review USGBC’s white paper: Greening the Codes.

Learn How to Become a Qualified Contractor for Omaha's New reEnergize Program

2011-06-08T16:25:00.000-05:00

Take part in a new energy upgrade market of over 3000 homes - Become a Qualified Contractor for the City's reEnergize Program.

An informational forum for contractors interested in participating in the city of Omaha’s reEnergize Program will be hosted by the Greater Omaha Chamber.

Wednesday, June 15 from 2 - 3 p.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber, Board Room
1301 Harney St. Omaha

Highly qualified contractors will complete energy evaluations on 263 buildings and make energy upgrades on 3,193 residences throughout the five stages of the program.

Come learn how you can become a qualified contractor and access this new and growing market.

There is no cost to attend, but reservations are necessary since space is limited. Sign up at http://www.omahachamber.org/chamber/EventDetail.aspx?EventDateID=20507

You do not need to be a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber to attend.

Funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s BetterBuildings Program, the reEnergize Program is a collaborative effort between the cities of Omaha and Lincoln to build energy smart communities.

To learn more about the reEnergize program visit http://www.reenergizeprogram.org/

2011 ENERGY STAR National Building Competition: Snapshot of Applicants

2011-06-08T10:12:00.001-05:00

On May 2, 2011, EPA launched the 2011 ENERGY STAR National Building Competition: Battle of the Buildings. Building off the successes of last year's competition, teams from 245 buildings of all shapes and sizes from across the country will battle it out to see who can reduce their energy use the most.

EPA's Battle of the Buildings is designed to raise awareness among Americans that the buildings where we work, play, and learn are responsible for a significant portion of our overall energy use and greenhouse gas emissions—about 20 percent at a cost of more than $100 billion annually.
This year, the energy use (or "weight") of every competitor will be measured at the start of the competition and again at the midpoint when the field of 245 competitors will be narrowed down to a smaller group of 10 to 15 finalists. Among the finalists, the building that demonstrates the greatest percentage-based reduction in energy use intensity (EUI) will be declared the winner on November 2, 2011.

The 2011 competition includes a substantially expanded field of participants. This year's competitors include 26 different types of commercial buildings, such as retail stores, schools, hotels, and museums, and hail from 33 states and the District of Columbia. Eleven buildings are 100 years old or greater, the smallest building is just over 6,000 square feet, and 15 buildings cover more than 1 million square feet of floor space, with the largest totaling nearly 3 million square feet!

Follow along and watch this year's competitors battle it out at www.energystar.gov/battleofthebuildings. See how small actions can add up to big energy savings, and learn a few tips to use in your own building.

ECO-Network Beta Organization

2011-06-08T10:08:00.000-05:00

Submission Deadline: Tuesday, June 21st

In May 2011, the Urban Sustainability Directors Network awarded the City of Omaha an Innovation Opportunity Grant to pursue the development of a web-based tool to support implementation of municipal sustainability plans. Working in partnership with the City of New Haven, CT, the City of Omaha will contract with a web development firm to design and launch the tool by mid-September 2011. The Cities of Omaha and New Haven propose developing a member-sustaining web-based tool for creating an inventory of local activities and helping users navigate the information with a guided search function. This grant will fund the development of a general template site with a basic package of tools and the customization and deployment of the web-tool in the two communities. The resulting web-based tool will be customizable for replication in other communities across the United States.

The City of Omaha is seeking approximately ten organizations to help Beta Test a new web-based tool for enhancing connectivity and networking toward implementation of community-wide sustainability plans. If your group is interested in being a Beta-organization to test ECO-Network, please send a brief description of your organization (250 words or less) and a bulleted list of your typical activities by June 21 to Kristi Wamstad-Evans at Kristina.wamstad-evans@ci.omaha.ne.us.

For more information, click here.

Order LEEDuser today and get their 'Cost of LEED' report for Free

2011-06-08T10:04:00.000-05:00

From Tristan Roberts, LEED AP, LEED User Editorial Director:
There are at least 8 reasons the "father of LEED," Rob Watson, called LEEDuser "a goldmine of professional insights."
We've made it our business to keep you covered on the nuts and bolts that count. Check out what LEEDuser can do for you:
1. Insider tips, checklists, and sample documentation for six major LEED commercial rating systems.
2. A professional forum where you can call on the expertise of your peers as well as dedicated staff ready to answer your toughest certification questions.
3. Targeted game plans for achieving every LEED credit available to you.
4. Checklists that cover each stage of your project, from pre-design, through construction, to operation and maintenance.
5. An exclusive agreement with the U.S. Green Building Council that allows you to perform searches on key credit language, making it easy to find your specific LEED topic.
6. Better understand the costs of certification, and where you can trim expenses.
7. Learn about credits you may have never even heard of and get a leg up on getting those coveted Gold and Platinum certifications.
8. For every credit, a list of resources to help you achieve it - from publications to expert consultants.

And now there's another excellent reason to join LEEDuser right now—the chance to get our essential report The Cost of LEED, free with your one-year subscription to LEEDuser.

Normally selling for $49, this 47-page, no-nonsense guide gives you the information you need about LEED credits and what it costs to achieve them, including:
• Cost premiums for hundreds of individual components or strategies.
• Multiple cost scenarios for credits.
• Cost synergies and notes on which credits don't cost more.

And by subscribing to LEEDuser now, you get this $49 report FREE.

It’s easy: Just visit LEEDuser.com and have a credit card handy. The free report price will be reflected at the bottom of the order page.

Or, order by phone. Call toll free at 800-861-0954 or (if calling from outside the U.S. and Canada) 802-257-7300.

P.S. Your LEEDuser membership is always 100% guaranteed. If you are ever dissatisfied, right up to the last day of your membership, you may cancel and receive a full refund -- and keep your free copy of The Cost of LEED.

ESRI Map Story is now Live

2011-06-07T12:02:00.000-05:00

The ESRI Map Story is a unique way to explain LEED visually, and the site is now live. Take a tour, explore LEED projects and view LEED stats by state at http://mapstories.esri.com/leed/.

USGBC Accepting LEED Pilot Credits From National Members

2011-06-07T11:58:00.001-05:00

Beginning this month, USGBC is considering LEED pilot credit ideas from USGBC membership. This new user-generated pilot credit application is available at usgbc.org/submitapilot. Proposals will be reviewed by USGBC committees and staff, and considered for inclusion in the LEED Pilot Credit Library on a competitive basis.

How to Read (Those Darn) Window Performance Stickers

2011-06-01T09:10:00.000-05:00

Posted May 30, 2011 6:28 AM by Tristan Roberts at BuildingGreen.com

Before you peel that NFRC sticker off the window, check the numbers and ask whether you got the right window for your climate.

Have you ever found yourself picking a sticker off a building product or material from the store, and wondering, why did they put the sticker here? I have often had this thought with everything from stovepipe to plumbing fittings, but the classic example in the building world is probably windows.

The glass part of the window is for looking through, right? Then why does every window manufacturer put two are three large stickers right in that area? Sometimes these come off easily--sometimes they are a real pain to remove. Sometimes they don't come off at all: I have seen window stickers, or remnants of them, still in place years after construction.

The next time you encounter one of those stickers--in your house, on the construction site, or at the showroom, take a close look. The different values that appear on them can mean a world of difference in terms of how those windows will perform in your building.

Read More about NFRC, U-factor, SHGC and what it all means for the building envelope.

More on the switch from ENERGY STAR plaques to decals

2011-05-27T10:17:00.000-05:00

To supplement the information contained in this earlier post, ENERGY STAR has put together some more details about the transition from plaques to building decals.

There will also be an informal webinar hosted on June 1st (see our events calendar for informaiton on that), which will be archived and available for viewing on the ENERGY STAR recorded training page after June 6th.

Additional information on the transition is summarized below:
- Applications electronically submitted before June 1, 2011, will still receive a plaque.

- EPA will provide instructions for creating a glass plaque out of the decal, or a traditional bronze ENERGY STAR plaque can be purchased from EPA’s third-party plaque manufacturer for $199 each, plus $25 for shipping (through 1/27/12, when this may change).

- Printer-ready artwork and instructions will be available for download on the ENERGY STAR website for buildings to make decals of their own, if desired.

- Each building (only those submitted after June 1, those submitted before will still receive the bronze plaque) will receive 2 identical decals. Additional decals are not available for purchase at this time.

- Both decals will either be the etched or blue/white, it is not an option to select one of each.

Contact at buildings@energystar.gov with additonal questions.

Call for Applications: USGBC Students Regional Chair

2011-05-24T08:57:00.000-05:00

USGBC Students seeks to train a small group of Regional Chairs to assist USGBC in advancing campus sustainability and green building goals through student engagement. Primary responsibilities of this volunteer position will include the recruitment, training and facilitation of the activities of USGBC student groups. This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to sustainability and green building, and who sees influencing the student demographic as a critical pathway toward change. Learn more.

Process Convenient for LES Customers to Receive Energy-conservation Incentives

2011-05-18T11:44:00.000-05:00

Customers wanting to take advantage of the financial incentives offered by Lincoln Electric System’s Sustainable Energy Program will find the process geared toward convenience, said J. Todd Hall, LES vice president of consumer services.

The Sustainable Energy Program provides customers financial incentives to help defray the cost of increasing the energy efficiency of their homes or businesses.

“The process is a partnership between customers, contractors and LES,” Hall said. “Customers can visit http://www.les.com/ to view a list of participating contractors who will provide an LES Green Credit on their bill, when eligible equipment and/or services are purchased.”

Hall said the process is simple and easy for customers:

To reserve funds, the registered contractor submits a customer-signed preauthorization form to LES.
LES encourages customers to get multiple bids to compare prices before they select a contractor.
If the project is approved, the contractor receives a confirmation number and is qualified for reimbursement.
Within 30 days following the confirmation, the contractor must complete the project and submit a reimbursement form to LES with a copy of the sales receipt clearly indicating the credit amount provided to the customer, purchase date and itemized cost, materials and service rendered.
To confirm the program’s guidelines are followed, LES reserves the right to inspect any project before or after its completion.
“We designed the program to be as convenient for the customer as possible,” Hall said. “The Sustainable Energy Program is about energy efficiency, so in keeping with that theme, we designed an efficient customer participation process.

“LES encourages customers getting multiple bids, to ensure the most effective use of the consumer’s and program’s money,” Hall said.

Of the $2 million in financial incentives originally available in February, nearly $1 million have been reserved, Hall said.

“There is still time left for customers interested in saving money and energy,” he said. “But remember, funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so customers should act fast.”

You may be interested in reading these articles:

“LES Pays Businesses to Save” describes LES’ financial incentives for businesses.
“LES Smart Energy Forum Discusses Energy Efficiency Lighting Projects for Businesses” provides information about energy savings from lighting projects by Pfizer, and Union College.
Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis and interested customers should contact participating contractors or your LES Account Executive. Just click on his or her photo to the left of the article for phone and email.

MCC Green Bike Photos and Program webpage!

2011-05-18T10:08:00.000-05:00

MCC Fort Omaha Campus now has a bike-sharing program called Green Bikes.
Check out photo's from MCC's stellar Green Bike event launch yesterday (Tuesday, May 17, 2011)!

https://www.facebook.com/MCCnebraska?ref=ts#!/media/set/?set=a.10150177741788882.327409.107355948881

This event could not have happened without the support from so many community partners. To name a few:

* Live Well Omaha
* Community Bike Project
* City of Omaha
* Douglas County Health Department

More details on the program at:

www.mccneb.edu/green/greenbikes.asp

Lincoln-Lancaster County Environmental Leadership Awards Breakfast

2011-05-18T09:08:00.000-05:00

Please honor those who are dedicated to protecting our environment, our health and our quality of life. The awards ceremony will recognize environmental leadership in sustaining and improving air, land, and water quality and protecting public health.

The 2011 Lincoln-Lancaster County Environmental Leadership Award Recipients are:
Business and Industry – ServiceMaster Professional Building Maintenance of Lincoln
Agriculture – Walt Bagley, Prairie Pines
Community Organization – Marcia Mueting, Pharm.D., R.P., Nebraska MEDS (Medication Education and Disposal Strategies)
Government – Nebraska Environmental Trust
Education – Bob Kuzelka
Individual Citizens – Adam Hintz, Meadowlark Coffee & Espresso; and Marilyn McNabb

The Lincoln and Lancaster County Environmental Leadership Awards Breakfast will be held on Friday, June 3, at the Nebraska Champions Club, beginning at 7:30 a.m. and concluded by 9:30 a.m. Pre-paid reservations of $15 per person are due by Thursday, May 26. Obtain a reservation form at www.lincoln.ne.gov keyword: awards.

Thank you for helping us celebrate these local environmental protection efforts!

ENERGY STAR will no longer supply free plaques

2011-05-09T16:08:00.000-05:00

It always seemed like only a matter of time before the cost to produce and ship the 8 lb metal plaques became too much for the free program to bear. Though, as the email states, this change is not only in response to the "resource requirements associated with producing and shipping" the current ENERGY STAR plaque, it's also the result of requests for a more versatile recognition option for certified buildings.

So all buildings who submit after June 1, 2011 will receive the new decal in lieu of the traditional plaque.

According to the ENERGY STAR Commercial & Industrial team, "EPA will offer these new, professional-quality decals that are better suited and more adaptable for the many different types of buildings in our partners’ portfolios. EPA will no longer provide the ENERGY STAR plaque, thereby freeing up resources and allowing us to concentrate those resources on providing energy efficiency and program support to our partners. We are working with our supplier to explore the possibility of enabling our partners to purchase plaques on their own. We will send more details as they become available."

The new decal will include the ENERGY STAR certification mark, along with text indicating that the building is an "ENERGY STAR Certified Building". There will be two decal options available, the traditional blue and white or one with an 'etched look'. A third option, with no decal, will include a certificate of achievement only. A preview of these decals is included below. Contact buildings@energystar.gov with questions.

2007 Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) will not be Released

2011-05-09T08:23:00.001-05:00

EIA regrets to report that the 2007 Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) has not yielded valid statistical estimates of building counts, energy characteristics, consumption, and expenditures. Because the data do not meet EIA standards for quality, credible energy information, neither data tables nor a public use file will be released. In the interim, EIA will develop key energy indicators for commercial buildings in collaboration with EIA’s forecasting staff for the Annual Energy Outlook.

Factors contributing to this outcome include the use of a cheaper but experimental survey frame and sampling method by EIA’s prime contractor, design errors in the construction of the method and selection of common building types, and an inability to monitor and manage its use in a production survey environment. EIA has reviewed and introduced significant changes in its procurement and project management standards that will prevent this type of loss in the future.

As reported in the EIA Press Release, "Immediate Reductions in EIA's Energy Data and Analysis Programs Necessitated by FY 2011 Funding Cut" (http://www.eia.gov/pressroom/releases/press362.cfm?src=email), work on the 2011 CBECS has been suspended at this time.

May is Bike Month

2011-05-04T13:40:00.000-05:00

Spring is here and May is a perfect month to enjoy Nebraska on a bicycle. There are many opportunities for you to be fit and active while bicycling. You can either ride to work or schools, check out your local park, neighborhood or trail and enjoy a ride today!

May has been designated as national Bike Month and May 16th-20th as Bike to Work Week. To help support these national efforts here in Nebraska, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission have teamed up to promote these events. Whether you are at a school, worksite, or local public health department, here are several tools to help you promote your local events.

Here are several resources from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission:
1.Nebraska Bike Safety Brochure
2.Draft Local Press Release
3.Nebraska Physical Activity Brochures (See website: http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/NAFH/BeActive.htm)

More information

FREE "Easy Energy & Materials Savings" Booklets Available

2011-05-04T13:39:00.001-05:00

The Nebraska Business Development Center is offering your business a valuable FREE booklet of case studies from Midwest businesses, including general information and helpful resources about easy, proven projects businesses can do to save money and increase efficiency. This booklet serves as an excellent tool for you to assist both your business and business partners in saving energy, conserving resources and increasing profits. The booklet helps illustrate the savings other businesses have been able to achieve and covers savings in five proven areas: lighting, water, solvents, packaging and compressed air. You can download a copy of the book at http://nbdc.unomaha.edu/energy/energy_book.pdf. Please email Jenna Matthey at jmatthey@unomaha.edu with the number of booklets you wish to keep at your workplace and distribute to your clients/partners. Be sure to indicate the address to which you would like the booklets sent. You can expect to receive the booklets in about three weeks.

Weatherization Training | Metropolitan Community College | Starting May 9, 2011

2011-05-04T09:30:00.000-05:00

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) is proud to offer Weatherization Training classes at our new Weatherization Training Center.

You may qualify for Tuition Assistance through the NE Dept. of Labor's SYNERGY Energy Sector Training Grant. Please contact Nina Rogers at the Omaha Career Center to see if you qualify. Phone: 402-595-3022. To receive tuition assistance you must enroll in the SYNERGY program before registering for class.

We are a qualified training provider as outlined by the reEnergize program. Both Weatherization Installer I and Weatherization Installer II must be taken to receive full Weatherization Installer Training.

We are currently offering:

Weatherization Installer I
* This class covers building science theory and construction methods as well as exercises and techniques for installation of weatherization materials. This course will focus on hands-on application of blower doors, combustion safety, building science, safety, and hand/power tools. Includes basics of mobile home and multi-family weatherization.

Weatherization Installer II
* Theory, methods, and techniques for installation of weatherization materials. This course will focus on demonstration and hands-on application of weather-stripping (air sealing), insulation, mechanical ventilation, caulking, and door and window installation. Includes more difficult weatherization procedures such as basements and crawl spaces.

To Register call: 402-457-5231

Weatherization Installer I SNRG 1120 (Section Y3)
May 9 - 13, Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm
MCC Weatherization Training Center
5626 Sorensen Parkway, Omaha
Class size: 12
Cost: $212 + books

Weatherization Installer I SNRG 1120 (Section Y13)
June 13 - 17, Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm
MCC Weatherization Training Center
5626 Sorensen Parkway, Omaha
Class size: 12
Cost: $212 + books

Weatherization Installer I SNRG 1120 (Section Y23)
July 11 - 15, Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm
MCC Weatherization Training Center
5626 Sorensen Parkway, Omaha
Class size: 12
Cost: $212 + books

Weatherization Installer II SNRG 1121 (Section Y13)
June 27 - July 1, Monday - Friday, 8am – 5pm
MCC Weatherization Training Center
5626 Sorensen Parkway, Omaha
Class size: 12
Cost: $212 + books

Sustainable Sites Credit 4 - Update to Option 3 Approach 1

2011-04-26T11:27:00.001-05:00

USGBC has released two more resources to help LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance projects perform and analyze occupant commute surveys in SSc4: Alternative Commuting Transportation. The first is an approved alternative compliance path for projects using Option 3 (building occupant survey) Approach 1 (survey of all building occupants). The second is a free offline calculator to be used in line with this new alternative compliance path. Both of these resources apply to LEED for Existing Buildings: O&M v2008 and v2009 and are approved for immediate use. USGBC will formally publish this improvement in an upcoming LEED for Existing Buildings: O&M Reference Guide Addendum. LEED 2009 for Existing Buildings: O&M Resources & Tools »

LEED Interpretations

2011-04-26T11:26:00.000-05:00

USGBC has introduced LEED Interpretations to provide LEED project teams with official, precedent-setting rulings beyond the Project Credit Interpretation Rulings administered by GBCI. Because LEED Interpretations undergo USGBC’s rigorous committee and staff vetting process, they apply not only to the project requesting the ruling but also to LEED projects aiming to achieve the same LEED prerequisite, credit, or Minimum Program Requirement. LEED Interpretations are accessible through a searchable, publicly available, online database at usgbc.org/leedinterpretations. Anyone who has or creates a usgbc.org site user account may access this database.

NOTE: The first regularly scheduled quarterly update of the LEED Interpretations and Addenda database will coincide with the Second Quarter LEED Addenda release due in early May 2011. Content will include LEED Interpretations that must be adhered to by any LEED 2009 project registered after the posting date.

USGBC NFC at Earth Day Omaha

2011-04-25T08:43:00.000-05:00

Check out this clip from KETV which features USGBC NFC members Rebecca Hubbs and Avery Schwer: http://www.ketv.com/video/27649950/detail.html

Affordable green homes in north Omaha

2011-04-22T11:17:00.000-05:00

By Erin Golden, WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER
For years, the once-grand apartment building on North 16th Street in Omaha was the kind of place that looked like it had been forgotten.

Built in 1916 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the dark brick building known as the Margaret had fallen into disrepair by the time it entered its ninth decade. After being abandoned by its last owner, it became a popular spot for squatters, including many who left behind trash and damage from fires they set in an attempt to keep warm. At some point, part of the roof caved in.

Drive by now, though, and it's clear the Margaret is getting a second chance — and in some unexpected ways.

As contractors work to restore the historic character of the apartments —16 units that will be available for low- to moderate-income residents — they're also adding new features, including a geothermal heating system and energy-generating solar panels.

It's one of at least two new projects in north Omaha that are balancing affordability with green-friendly features that will help keep residents' energy costs down and leave behind a smaller footprint on the environment.

About two miles north, Habitat for Humanity of Omaha recently completed a house it hopes soon will be certified by the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED program, which would be a first for the group. From low-flow toilets to deeper walls that allow added insulation, the house at 22nd Street and Fowler Avenue is designed to be green.

Habitat's Dan Brewer said more chapters are starting to change the way they build. “It's not only because it's the right thing to do environmentally, but because it also provides, we think, a better quality home for the homeowners.”

Going green wasn't always the goal at the Margaret.

When the north Omaha-based nonprofit Omaha Economic Development Corp. bought the building in 2006, the group's leaders planned a standard renovation.

But the group's president, Michael Maroney, said incorporating some alternative energy technology started to seem like a good idea — even though the upfront cost would be a bit higher. The organization enlisted the help of the Geothermal Green Team, a Gretna-based company that specializes in ground-source heat pumps. Read More at Omaha.com.

Earth Day Omaha - This Saturday!

2011-04-21T09:54:00.000-05:00

Omaha's premier Earth Day Celebration is taking place in Elmwood Park this Saturday from 11am to 6pm. Read on for all of the wonderful activities and entertainment we have in store for you!Visit EarthDayOmaha.com/schedule.php for a complete schedule.

Music
We have an exciting lineup of local bands this year!
Matt Cox
Platte River Rain
Bad Country
The Answer Team
Witness Tree
Brad Hoshaw & the Seven Deadlies
Satchel Grande

Knowledge
Explore area green organizations and businesses from 11am to 4pm in the main area of the park.
Learn how to make a rain barrel and plant trees at our main stage.
Participate in and enjoy interactive demonstrations in the Health & Wellness area.

Fun & Food
Let the kids have a great time at the climbing wall and children's tent.
Chow down on delicious eats from local food vendors.
Have a refreshing drink in the beer garden.
Free parking is available at the UNO parking structure behind the Arts & Sciences Hall. Just follow the signs... and please please please don't park on the grass! In fact, the earth will love you if you bike, walk or take public transportation.

Changes to LEED in 2012: Free Webinar Session for Members

2011-04-06T10:09:00.000-05:00

A new seven-part webinar series launches May 5, introducing the green building community to the proposed changes to the LEED rating systems in 2012. As an exclusive benefit for members, when you sign up for the full series, you receive one session free â€“ on top of the already-discounted member price.

That translates to an education package worth $525 for only $360. Register now, and use promo code specialoffer11 at checkout.

All sessions are broadcast live from 1-2:30 ET. 1.5 GBCI, AIA CE hours per session. May 5: Overview

May 26: Regionalization

June 2: Weightings

July 14: Materials & Resources

July 28: Building Performance 2012

Aug. 11: Integrated Process

Aug. 25: Location/Transportation & Sustainable Sites

Each session features LEED Technical Advisory Group and Committee members, LEED experts in the field, providing insight and tools for understanding the member-driven LEED development cycle. Learn more and register.

Free Access to LEED 101

2011-04-06T10:07:00.001-05:00

USGBC's popular online training LEED 101: Green Building Basics & LEED is a great introduction to green building and LEED for those new to the industry. And now, it's free for all member organizations! Be sure to make the most of this offer by sharing it with new employees, coworkers who aren't involved in your organization's green building work but could benefit from understanding the basics, and any other employee of your organization who needs an introduction to what green building is and the fundamentals of the LEED rating systems.

BD+C 252: LEED for New Construction Credit-by-Credit Review Webinar: Energy & Atmosphere

2011-04-06T09:41:00.000-05:00

This session will be presented by Brian Hadfield of Alvine Engineering and Sarah Gudeman of Morrissey Engineering. Monday April 25th. 12-1:30pm Scott Conference Center (6450 Pine St. Omaha, NE) Check-in begins at 11:30 and lunch will be provided. RSVP to programs@usgbcne.org. Cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. This is the third in a 5-part webinar series on the BD+C rating system. This session explores the Energy & Atmosphere category in a credit-by-credit format, reviewing overall and individual intents and requirements of prerequisites and credits for the 2009 LEED BD+C rating system. The session will include a Q&A discussion following the presentation. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify, students (with valid ID) may attend at a discounted rate of $10. Cash or check only. Education accompanying the monthly meeting will count towards ERB-approved LEED Professional continuing education. This presentation is applicable for 1.5 AIA/CES and 1.5 GBCI LEED Specific CE Hours. Download the event flier here.

Remember to view the chapter events calendar and news feed for more information on upcoming meetings and chapter-hosted events. www.usgbcne.org

New tool provides multi-attribute, in-depth analysis of building products

2011-04-05T10:30:00.000-05:00

via LEEDuser.com newsletter Brattleboro, Vermont - April 5, 2011 A dynamic new tool to help commercial buyers evaluate product content, certifications and other relevant data about building materials is now available through BuildingGreen. The tool, called Pharos, enables product specifiers, researchers and materials librarians to compare products within key builder categories against crucial health, environmental and energy benchmarks. Rated products receive a numerical score on a ten-point scale within each rating category. For ease of comparing individual products at a glance, scores are also color-coded. Pharos subscribers may use the system to examine the data directly in order to evaluate product attributes and chemical hazards. A Pharos user can also set filters based on scores or attributes, conduct searches and create product libraries that effectively let the user set their own priorities and preferences. For products outside the Pharos database, subscribers can use the Pharos Chemical and Material Library as a stand-alone tool to look up a chemical, polymer, metal, wood species or other material from any product and learn about any listed hazards for that material. The addition of Pharos strengthens BuildingGreen's position as the authoritative resource for the green building industry. "BuildingGreen has been a trusted source, on the leading edge of green product innovation for 20 years. Pharos adds a new level of in-depth exploration of the healthfulness and other aspects of these products," said Nadav Malin, President of BuildingGreen. Interested parties can learn more about Pharos here, or contact: Walter Pearce at walter@buildinggreen.com or 122 Birge Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301.

LEED AP+: Should You Opt In, and What To Do Once You Have

2011-04-02T08:37:00.001-05:00

LEEDuser Webcast - Exclusively for LEEDuser Members

Tuesday, April 19th 3 p.m. ETIf you became a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) in 2009 or earlier, an important date is looming. As of August 2011 (your exact date may vary), the window begins to close on your chance to opt in to the LEED AP + specialty credential program, unless you want to study for, pay for, and pass the new, more difficult exam.LEEDuser invites members to join Mara Baum, AIA, LEED AP BD+C of HOK in this webcast that will help you plan your path through the LEED Credential Maintenance Program (CMP), and answer your questions about it. Mara is the expert on the LEED CMP that other sustainability leaders turn to—and as an outsider to GBCI she gives frank advice on what professionals should do. For access to more webinars including members only webinars, $9.95 for access to the members only webinar + 1-month access to LEEDuser.com

Emissions of Greenhouse Gas Report Release

2011-04-01T15:39:00.001-05:00

Total U.S. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions were 6,576 million metric tons carbon diioxide equivalent (MMTCO2e) in 2009, a decrease of 5.8 percent from the 2008 level. Since 1990, GHG emissions have grown at an average annual rate of 0.4 percent.his report provides an annual inventory of anthropogenic (human-caused) greenhouse gases in the United States. See the full report at: http://www.eia.gov/environment/emissions/ghg_report/

Omaha Adds New Recyclable Items

2011-03-28T11:22:00.001-05:00

Get Ready Omaha - we now recycle Juice Boxes and dozens of other aseptic and gable top containers! The Omaha Public Works Department is pleased to announce that gable-top and aseptic food cartons are now recyclable in Omaha's curbside and drop-off site recycling program. Gable-top cartons are containers that you will find in the refrigerated section of the grocery store and hold products such as milk, cream, fresh juice and egg substitutes. Aseptic cartons are containers that are shelf-stable, meaning they have a long shelf life and don't require refrigeration prior to opening, and hold products such as soup, broth, wine, soy milk, juice and milk. To learn more about carton food containers, click here for a FAQ. And don't forget to recycle all the other recyclables found throughout your house. Click here to go to Omaha's recycling page and review what you can recycle at http://www.omaharecycles.com/. Recycling. It's O! so Easy!

Solar-Updated Greenhouse Tour

2011-03-28T08:29:00.000-05:00

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) will be commissioning a solar hot water system in the Horticulture Department's Fort Omaha Campus greenhouse on April 1, 2011. This is the first solar installation of its kind in the state and the first in any community college across the country. The purpose of the solar system is to assist with heating the greenhouse during the winter and to provide heat for bedding plant growing tables.The funding for the solar installation was provided by a grant from the Nebraska Energy Office.

The greenhouse was selected as a demonstration site because it provided multiple types of different heating uses and can show an energy cost savings. The technology of the solar demonstration system is readily transferable to greenhouses and hot houses across the state for bedding plants and vegetable crops, thereby impacting the economies of rural Nebraska.

Students will have access to the system for installation seminars as they disassemble and re-assemble various components of the system.The Nebraska Solar Energy Society will hold their bi-monthly meeting at the Fort Omaha Campus and provide a speaker at the buffet following the commissioning tour of the solar system. The Nebraska Solar Energy Society is a group supporting the expansion of solar technology with public education programs.For more information about the solar tour, contactMichael Shonka, Project Coordinator for Sustainable Energy Technology, at mshonka1@mccneb.edu or(402) 738-4536.

The solar tour of the greenhouse begins at 6 p.m. The tour is free. The buffet dinner follows at 7 p.m. The cost of the of the dinner is $15. RSVPs are requested at focuseg@cox.net or call Gary Boe (402) 321-2797.

Campus map link is below. Meet at Greenhouse, Bldg 27. Dinner at Bldg 21. http://www.mccneb.edu/campuslocations/maps/Fort%20Omaha%20Campus%20Map.pdf

Electric Submeters Optimize Building Performance at Engineering Firm’s Headquarters

2011-03-23T13:14:00.000-05:00

Mar 22, 2011 3:53 PM via http://ecmweb.com

...MEI’s LEED-NC certification showing points received by category. Submeters are especially useful for measurement and verification in the energy and atmosphere category, in which MEI achieved nearly the maximum allowable points...

Submeter manufacturers have responded to the green challenge by developing next-generation hardware and software tools that specifically address the needs of sustainable facilities by providing functionality that helps users measure and verify compliance with LEED, EPACT, Renewable Energy, Demand Response, and other major energy initiatives. Certified to ANSI C12.1 & C12.16 national accuracy standards, new-generation meters offer a number of important features for new construction or retrofit applications, including:

- Scrolling LCD display of kilowatt (kWh) usage,
- kWh in dollars,
- Current demand load (kW),
- Cost per hour, based on current load,
- Estimated CO2 emissions in pounds, based on DOE standards,
- Estimated hourly CO2 emissions based on current load,
- Net metering, including utility-delivered vs. user-received power and net usage, and
- Compatibility with pulse-output utility meters, including water, gas, BTU, steam, etc.

Read the full story at http://ecmweb.com/case-studies/electric-submeters-optimize-buildling-performance-20110322/#

ICAN Women's Leadership Conference

2011-03-23T12:31:00.000-05:00

ICAN's 18th Annual Conference will take place in Omaha on April 7th, 2011. More information is available at www.icanglobal.net

NEW highlights from the conference include:
- 80 Duchesne Academy girls will be joining us at the conference to welcome the honorable Mary Robinson, a fellow Sacred Heart school alumn.

- Women from China, Lithuania, and Germany will be taking part in the conference as part of Omaha's Sister City Association.

- Registration is open for ICAN's first speed networking event, Connection Corner on April 6, 2011 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

- Elizabeth Gilbert, author of "Eat, Pray, Love" will be available to sign books along with many other conference speakers.

- The Alliance for Business Ethics will be presenting the honorable Mary Robinson with the prestigious Beacon of Ethics award.

And there is so much more! Many women are inviting their friends and clients from all over the United States to take part in this unique conference and we invite you to do the same!

When registering USGBC NFC members can submit the code “non-profit” to get a 50% discount. Email ican@icanglobal.net with questions.

Nebraska's Mr. Energy Presentation

2011-03-17T09:29:00.000-05:00

When: Wednesday, April 20th at 11:30am

Where: Creighton University, Skutt Student Center, Rm. 104

Creighton University is pleased to announce that Robert Byrnes, Nebraska's Mr Energy, will present as part of their Earth Day 2011 celebration. Mr. Byrnes has developed the technology on his farm to essentially be off the energy grid, and he generates electricity and fuel to conduct his daily life and enterprises. For more information, visit:
http://www.creighton.edu/adminfinance/facilities/energymanagement/programs/earthday/ed11/index.php

2011 neighborhood grants program under way

2011-03-09T10:30:00.000-06:00

via Omaha by Design

Hey, neighborhoods – got your ideas ready?

Mayor Jim Suttle has allocated $90,000 to award grants to neighborhood associations citywide in 2011. Grants are available in two areas – neighborhood green improvements and crime prevention. Associations may apply for one or both grants for a maximum combined total of $5,000.

Some examples of green improvement projects are community gardens, bike racks, trail/walking path signage, recycling receptacles, benches and picnic tables, energy efficient lighting, green space development, and tree purchasing and planting.

Crime prevention grants focus on community involvement to reduce crime and improve public well being. Each association must have local law enforcement approval. Project examples include communication for citizen patrols (radios, radio batteries and scanners), Omaha Coalition of Citizen Patrols-approved uniforms and car signage, and Crime Prevention through Environmental Design.

The 2011 program will not fund one-time events, projects on private property, neighborhood entrance signs and analog radio equipment.

Neighborhood associations must be registered and listed in the City of Omaha’s Neighborhood Association Directory in order to be eligible. To access the directory, visit www.cityofomaha.org/mayor, then click on “Neighborhoods” and then “List of Associations.” Priority funding will be given to applicants that have participated in a Place Game workshop conducted by Omaha by Design. See this fact sheet for details.

The application deadline is Friday, April 1, at 4:00pm. Applications can be downloaded from www.cityofomaha.org/mayor. The grant awardees will be announced Friday, April 22. For more information, contact Tom McCauley at 402.444.7918 or tom.mccauley@ci.omaha.ne.us.

OPPD Grant for Energy Education and Energy Efficiency Kits

2011-03-09T08:56:00.000-06:00

Application Deadline: Tuesday, March 15th

The "Get A Head Start on Energy" education program was developed by the Nebraska Energy Assistance Network (NEAN) and is designed as a learning experience for households to discover ways to reduce or stabilize energy use in their homes, and to better manage and plan for energy-related expenses. This grant program is targeting community-based organizations and agencies that work with seniors, new home buyers, those with limited incomes or those struggling financially. This can include neighborhood associations, libraries, senior centers, housing agencies or others who sponsor adult-based education programs.Visit http://www.oppd.com/AimGreen/22_006056 for application materials and more information on this grant.NEAN is a statewide coalition of utilities, human service and governmental agencies, and community leaders partnering with local non-profit agencies to educate Nebraskans on ways to improve their energy use. For more information, visit: http://www.nebraskaenergyassistance.com/

Two New Professional Courses Open for Enrollment at Southeast Community College

2011-03-08T11:06:00.000-06:00

BPI Building Analyst Training
This five-day intensive BPI: Building Analyst Training course includes instruction in the classroom and hands-on field training using diagnostic equipment in a home. The course fee includes both written and field exams that one must pass to become a BPI Building Analyst Professional. With the proper understanding and the proper equipment, a BPI Building Analyst is qualified to make recommendations to the homeowner on how to reduce energy consumption and improve home performance.

Course Number: CNST-6356-CEWB Date: March 28 – April 1, 2011 Time: 8 am-5 pm each day Cost: $1595 Location: Room 304, SCC Continuing Education Center, 301 S. 68th Street Place, Lincoln, Nebraska

LEED Green Associate Exam Prep Course
Federal, state and municipal ordinances are setting LEED as the standard for new construction, so building professionals including skilled trades people will benefit from a comprehensive understanding of the LEED Credit Rating System, LEED standards and the LEED design system generally. This LEED GA course in preparation for the LEED GA exam provides participants with exactly the understanding they’ll need to successfully pass the exam and acquire LEED GA certification making entry into Green building a seamless transition.

Course Number: CNST-6357-CEWA Date: March 28, 2011 Time: 9 am-5 pm
Cost: $345 Location: Room 302, SCC Continuing Education Center, 301 S. 68th Street Place, Lincoln, Nebraska

Contact Shannon Moncure at smoncure@southeast.edu or (402) 323-3381 to enroll.

ENERGY STAR Upcoming Change in EPA Policy for Label Years

2011-03-07T17:01:00.000-06:00

Starting on January 1, 2012, EPA will adopt a new policy for establishing the year that displays on the ENERGY STAR label and certificate.

Current Policy Currently, the year on your label is based on the 12-month period ending date listed on your Statement of Energy Performance (SEP).
New PolicyFor all label applications approved on or after January 1, 2012, the year on your label will be based on the year during which your label application is approved, regardless of the SEP period ending date.

Will the New Policy Affect You? For many buildings, the SEP ending date and approval date fall within the same calendar year, meaning the change in policy will go unnoticed. However, for buildings that apply near the end of the calendar year, the new approach may change the year that shows on the label. For example, suppose that a building applies for the ENERGY STAR with the SEP period ending 12/31/2011. Because the data is from December they will not be able to prepare the application until 2012. Therefore, this application will be received by EPA, reviewed, and approved within 2012. Under the current system, the label itself would have read 2011, corresponding with the date on the SEP. However, after the change, this label would read 2012, corresponding to the date of approval.

There are a couple of important notes to bear in mind:
•Eligibility to Apply – Your eligibility will still be determined on a 12-month basis, according to the period ending date on your SEP.
•Labels per year – Under the new system any individual building will only be permitted to earn one label per calendar year. If your building is approved on January 1, 2012, it cannot be approved again until January 1, 2013.
•Interim Year (2011) – Buildings that submit label applications near the end of 2010 will receive 2010 labels during the calendar year 2011. With the new approach, however, if these buildings re-apply for labels near the end of 2011, they will receive 2012 labels, thereby skipping the year 2011. EPA will work with these buildings to help them preserve the continuity of their label years.
•Deadline to Receive a 2011 Label – Any application approved in the calendar year 2012 (starting with January 1) will receive a 2012 label. Therefore, if you want a 2011 label you need to have your application postmarked by November 15, 2011. Submission by this date will ensure that your application can be reviewed and approved during 2011, provided that it is a complete application and that any problems are resolved by December 31, 2011.

Why Did EPA Make this Change? The purpose of this change is to align the year that displays on your label with the calendar year in which it was approved. This change will make it easier for you and EPA to communicate and celebrate your award with the public.

If you have any additional questions about this change please contact buildings@energystar.gov.

New course on LEED for Homes Program

2011-02-24T08:35:00.001-06:00

USGBC is launching a brand-new full-day workshop this spring: HOMES 252: Understanding the LEED for Homes Rating System. Make your next project a LEED for Homes project.

Learn the intents and requirements of prerequisites and key credits within the LEED for Homes rating system. Identify the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders and prepare for key considerations in the LEED for Homes certification process. HOMES 252: Understanding the LEED for Homes Rating Systems will be offered in Denver, Colo., by the USGBC Colorado Chapter on Apr. 19. Click here for more information.

Check under "Upcoming Events" at www.usgbc.org/homes for upcoming workshops

New LEED for Homes Self-Scoring Tool

2011-02-24T08:34:00.001-06:00

The LEED for Homes Self-Scoring Tool gives you an estimate of how your project might score in LEED for Homes. It also lets you confirm or change that estimated score by reviewing the actual credit requirements.

The LEED for Homes Scoring tool launches Feb. 28.

Sign up at www.leedforhomes.org for notification on when the site goes live

MCC Green Living Workshops (Spring 2011)

2011-02-22T13:09:00.000-06:00

MCC, in partnership with the Green Omaha Coalition (GOC), is happy to offer Green Living Workshops as a regular part of MCC's Community Education. Learn how to save money, improve your family's health and be good to the environment with MCC's Green Living Workshops. These workshops will include current, practical information on topics such as food, water, energy, transportation, 'stuff' (solid waste and recycling), economics, gardening and yards. Check back every quarter for new offerings.

To register please call 457-5231 or visit www.mccneb.edu/ce

Backyard Aquaponic Gardening
Explore this gardening frontier. Learn how plants and fish work together in a beneficial relationship to provide a wonderful kitchen garden. This will challenge the way you think gardening should be. Learn system set-up, fish and plant selection and maintenance. The instructor is Kip Edmonds. Category: Food (one session) Fort Omaha Campus, Bldg. 27, Room 101, 30th and Fort St.
HOMI-068N-01 SA 09:00A-12:00P 03/26-03/26 $19
HOMI-068N-02 SA 09:00A-12:00P 04/30-04/30 $19

Confidently Commuting by Bicycle
This covers the basics of commuting safely and confidently by bicycle. Participants will learn the benefits of commuting, bike fit, basic roadside repair, route finding, useful gear and equipment, rules of the road and ways to avoid common mistakes. The changing landscape of Omaha from a cyclist's perspective will also be discussed. The instructor is Sarah Johnson. Category: Transportation (one session) Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
HOMI-056N-01 T 08:30A-10:30A 03/29-03/29 $19
HOMI-056N-02 T 06:00P-08:00P 03/29-03/29 $19

Eco-Friendly Insect and Disease Control
Learn the benefits of keeping our multi-legged friends around. Discussion includes product use, applications and plant selection. Also learn types of control, barriers for insects and diseases, mulching and watering techniques. If you are planning on a vegetable garden for summer, this class is essential for success. Category: Food (one session) Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
HOMI-058N-01 T 08:30A-10:30A 04/12-04/12 $19
HOMI-058N-02 T 06:00P-08:00P 04/12-04/12 $19

Ethical Eating
Based on the book Menu for the Future, this is an opportunity to meet and form an interest group on ethical eating. Use the materials as a lens through which to view the issues around food choice from individual, local, national and global perspectives. The purpose of the introductory session is to provide a framework and an opportunity to view the scope of the materials available and organize into a self-directed group. The course builds awareness around the heightened issues regarding food choice and freedom. Category: Food (one session) Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
HOMI-061N-01 T 08:30A-10:30A 05/10-05/10 $19
HOMI-061N-02 T 06:00P-08:00P 05/10-05/10 $19

Food Preservation/Storage
This class presents a brief overview of different types of food preservation including pressure-cooking, water bath canning, dehydration, freezing and fermentation. There will be a short demonstration in the kitchen along with a discussion of the benefits of, concerns about and supplies needed for each preservation technique. Now is the time to make plans for the vegetable garden so you can preserve your fresh vegetables and herbs. Category: Food (one session) Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
HOMI-041N-01 T 08:30A-10:30A 04/19-04/19 $19
HOMI-041N-02 T 06:00P-08:00P 04/19-04/19 $19

Growing Organic Vegetables and Herbs
Learn about growing vegetables and herbs without the use of pesticides. Topics include seed selection, soil management, companion planting and prevention of diseases and insects. Bring your garden measurements to class and let us help plan your healthy summer vegetable garden. Category: Food (one session) Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
HOMI-057N-01 T 08:30A-10:30A 04/05-04/05 $19
HOMI-057N-02 T 06:00P-08:00P 04/05-04/05 $19

Home Energy: Insulate and Weatherize
Is your house drafty? Have a hot or cold spot? Learn to find and safely fix hidden air leaks in your home. Simple weatherization techniques can help stop both air and money from leaking out of the house. Learn what areas need insulating and how much insulation to use. Discuss the implications of air-sealing and insulating as they apply to energy savings, comfort and indoor air quality. Category: Energy (one session) Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
HOMI-059N-01 T 08:30A-10:30A 04/26-04/26 $19
HOMI-059N-02 T 06:00P-08:00P 04/26-04/26 $19

Introduction to Living Green
Learn how to help others and yourself be more environmentally conscious through improved well being, cost-cutting tips, creating a more peaceful living area and finding a deeper awareness of one's impact on the Earth. Learn to think about sustainability by exploring eco-friendly structures and practices, being water- wise, choosing healthy foods and using technology resources and money wisely. This is the beginning class for MCC's Living Green Community Certificate program. The instructor is Daniel Lawse. (one session) Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
HOMI-042N-01 T 08:30A-10:30A 03/22-03/22 $19
HOMI-042N-02 T 06:00P-08:00P 03/22-03/22 $19

Water Conservation: Indoor and Outdoor
Learn how to reduce water usage both indoors and outdoors. Discuss the basics of rain gardens, rain barrels, irrigation drip lines and soaker hoses. Simple, low-cost solutions will be explored for saving water within your home, while simultaneously reducing water bills. Category: Water (one session) Westside Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St.
HOMI-060N-01 T 08:30A-10:30A 05/03-05/03 $19
HOMI-060N-02 T 06:00P-08:00P 05/03-05/03 $19

LES' Sustainable Energy Program Is Back to Help Customers Save Money, Energy

2011-02-21T10:27:00.000-06:00

Lincoln Electric System customers are invited to take advantage of the $2 million in incentive funds available to make their homes and businesses more energy efficient through the Sustainable Energy Program, which kicks off Feb. 1, said J. Todd Hall, vice president of Consumer Services.

Hall said that in the first two years of the program, more than 5,000 residential customers and nearly 400 commercial customers have participated. As an example of the possible savings, customers who took part in last year's High-Efficiency Heat Pump and Air Conditioner program could see an annual savings of 10-15 percent on their electric bills, Hall said. Customers who participated in the 2010 Commercial and Industrial Lighting Retrofit program also could save between 10-15 percent.

The combined energy and demand reductions of customers taking part in the program have prevented more than 19,000 tons of CO2 being released into the atmosphere and helps delay the need to acquire additional power generation, which benefit all customers, he said.

"LES customers who have participated in the Sustainable Energy Program have not only reduced their impact on the environment, they have spurred economic activity in our community," Hall said. "Since the program's inception, LES customers have spent nearly $15 million on energy-efficient equipment and/or services provided by local participating contractors."

Hall said each year the program is reviewed to ensure it is effectively meeting customer needs and is evolving alongside technological advancements.

The program includes the following incentives for businesses:

- Lighting retrofit
- Air conditioner/heat pump
- Variable frequency drives replacement
- Compressed air system analysis
- Energy management systems installation or upgrade
- Systems commissioning

Please contact LES to apply for financial incentives if your business is considering other peak demand and energy-efficiency measures.

The program also includes incentives for residential customers:

- Whole-House Sealing and Insulation
- High-Efficiency Heat Pump and Air Conditioner
- Energy Detective Program

In addition, the Commercial and Industrial Energy-Efficiency Innovation Grant will be funded in 2011, Hall said, and additional details will be available soon.

Some projects may qualify for a federal tax credit. To take advantage of the program, customers should contact contractors participating in the LES program. Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The balance is updated regularly on LES’ Web site at www.les.com/.

2011 USGBC Education Survey

2011-02-14T11:44:00.001-06:00

Last year, USGBC National conducted a survey of its members and other stakeholders to better understand the market’s green building education needs. USGBC heard you, and now, as your local Chapter, we’re working with USGBC National to build 2011 education programming. Now is your chance to help us make sure that we’re on the right track.

Please take about five minutes to complete this brief survey to help ensure that we bring you the education that you and your business need.

The survey will close on Monday, February 28, so please respond soon.

ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager Changes

2011-02-14T09:39:00.000-06:00

Effective March 21, 2011, several important updates will be made in Portfolio Manager, Target Finder and the Automated Benchmarking System (ABS). These changes may impact your energy performance ratings.

If you need documentation of your current rating (e.g. for ENERGY STAR or LEED applications), print an SEP prior to March 18, 2011. If you have any questions about these changes, please contact buildings@energystar.gov.

1. New Senior Care Facility ModelA new rating will be available for Senior Care facilities, and those facilities scoring 75 or higher will be eligible to apply for the ENERGY STAR label. This rating methodology will be used for individual buildings and campuses of buildings that house and provide care and assistance for elderly residents. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) and assisted living facilities are eligible under this definition. Independent senior living communities are not eligible under this definition. However, it is common for some Senior Care Facilities to offer a mix of residential options including independent living along with some form of assisted living. In these situations, more than 50% of the units in a community must be considered skilled nursing or assisted living in order to be eligible as a Senior Care Facility. Facilities with more than 50% independent living units cannot earn a rating under this model and should benchmark using the Multifamily space type in Portfolio Manager.

When the updates are released on March 21, 2011, existing “Other- Health Care: Long Term Care (Nursing Home, Assisted Living)” spaces will be converted automatically to the new Senior Care Facility space type. Default values will be provided for all required attributes, which will enable you to see a rating. Please log-in to Portfolio Manager on or after March 21, 2011 to update these defaults with actual values for your community to receive the most accurate rating.

2. New Optional Inputs for the Data Center Space TypeTwo new optional IT Energy meter types will be available in Portfolio Manager. The meter types are optional and therefore will not affect the ENERGY STAR rating calculation. The two new types are:

· Power Distribution Unit (PDU) Output Energy
· IT Equipment Input Energy (meters on each piece of equipment

3. Updates to Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) and Green Power Tracking
Several changes will be made to the Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) tracking section in Portfolio Manager. This section will be re-named Green Power Purchases, and it will enable greater flexibility for tracking green power products that you may purchase as part of your greenhouse gas reduction strategy. When entering these purchases, you will have greater flexibility, including:

The option to input the Generation Method as a combination of six renewable energy types:
· Biogas
· Biomass
· Geothermal
· Small Hydropower
· Solar
· Wind

Three options to identify the location where your green power product was generated. The more information you know about the location where your power was generated, the more accurately Portfolio Manager can compute your Avoided Emissions. The three options for entering the generation location are:
· Specific electricity generation plant
· Unknown generation plant but known eGRID sub-region
· No information about the location available

The ability to specify the Generation Period in month/year format, including future dates, to more accurately represent the Green Power Purchase time period.

4. Revised Source Conversion Factors for District Steam and Hot Water Energy TypesEffective March 21, 2011, the factors used to convert site energy into source energy will be updated for the District Steam and Hot Water energy types in order to take into account the growing presence of more efficient methods of generation, such as combined heat and power (CHP). The new conversion factors that will be used starting March 21, 2011 are:
· District Steam- 1.21
· District Hot Water- 1.28
This change does not require any action on your part. These factors are applied on calculations within Portfolio Manager.

5. New and Revised Building Import Templates
Effective February 4, 2011, a new template for the Senior Care Facility space type will be available for download. We encourage you to begin to gather data on your Senior Care Facilities so that you can benchmark their performance with the new ENERGY STAR rating methodology. However, because the new calculations will not be released to Portfolio Manager until March 21, 2011, any Senior Care Facility templates sent to buildings@energystar.gov will be processed after March 21, 2011.

To accommodate the March 21, 2011 changes in the Portfolio Manager system, all existing import templates must also be revised. There is a transition period during which new templates will be posted and the previous templates will be removed.
· New Templates – New templates will be posted for download on March 4, 2011. The electronic processing of any new templates will begin on March 21, 2011.
· Old Templates – The previous templates will be removed on March 4, 2011. Any completed versions of the previous template must be submitted by March 14, 2011 in order to be processed electronically.

The new import templates will have the following changes:
· Addition of the new optional Data Center IT Energy meter types to the following templates: Bank; Courthouse; Data Center; Dormitory; Hospital; Hotel; House of Worship; Medical; Office; Other; Refrigerated Warehouse; Retail; School; Supermarket; Unrefrigerated Warehouse.
· Removal of the “Healthcare- Long Term Care (Nursing Home; Assisted Living)” category from the Other template

6. Updates to the Automated Benchmarking Services Console
Two major changes will be made to the Automated Benchmarking Services Console:

1. New Meter Types – The Automated Benchmarking Services Console will now enable Portfolio Manager users to authorize their information service providers to support these additional meter types:
· Facility water meters
· Campus energy meters
· Campus water meters

Please note that ABS providers will be only be able to manage meter data to existing campus energy/water meters. ABS providers will not be able to add new or delete existing campus energy/water meters.

2. Multiple ABS Providers – The ABS console will now enable you to assign more than one ABS provider to each meter. Only a single ABS provider will be able to update the meter data (i.e. have read/write access), however you can also designate as many other providers as you would like to have read only access to each meter.

7. Update to Emissions Factors EPA is in the process of updating the eGRID factors that are used to compute building emissions. The update is being performed to include the most current information available to EPA through our inventory of all electric generation facilities in the country. This enhancement will improve your ability to perform an emissions inventory of your building(s).

During this update, emissions data will be temporarily unavailable in Portfolio Manager from 1/31/2011 to 3/21/2011. EPA updates emissions data periodically when more current data is available and this process does not typically require a break in emissions reporting within Portfolio Manager. However, during this particular update, EPA is also modifying some supplementary reference data, which comes from an external proprietary data source. The availability of this data has affected the timing required to make this change. Therefore the interruption in our ability to report emissions data is an isolated event, and it not part of our standard updating protocol. We are working hard to transition to the new data source as quickly as possible. Emissions reporting will resume in Portfolio Manager on March 21, 2011.

ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 Achieves 30% Savings Over 2004 Version

2011-02-11T14:02:00.003-06:00

The 2010 version of Standard 90.1 achieves its intended goal of enabling 30% energy savings compared to the 2004 standard. Standard 90.1-2010 was published in November 2010. However, ASHRAE recently received the final results of an analysis by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Building Energy Codes Program on addenda included in the standard. Without plug loads, site energy savings are 32.6% and energy cost savings are 30.1%. Including plug loads, the site energy savings are estimated to be 25.5% and energy cost savings are 24%. Read more

DOE Aims to Reduce Solar PV Costs by 75%

2011-02-11T14:02:00.001-06:00

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) new "SunShot Initiative" aims to reduce the total costs of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems by about 75% before the end of the decade so that PV systems are cost competitive with other forms of energy without subsidies. In addition to investing improvements in cell technologies and manufacturing, the initiative will also focus on steps to streamline and digitize local permitting processes that will reduce installation and permitting costs. As part of the SunShot Initiative, DOE has awarded up to $20.3 million in funding to projects to improve manufacturing efficiencies and reduce costs. In addition, DOE announced up to $7 million of funding in the fourth round of the Photovoltaic Incubator Program, which helps to shorten the commercialization timeline for promising emerging solar technologies. Read more

SFPE Great Plains Chapter: Inception Meeting

2011-02-08T10:07:00.000-06:00

A team of local fire protection community members is launching a local Society of
Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) Chapter in Omaha. Team members include: Design professionals, code consultants, facility engineers, fire department officers, University of Nebraska representatives, contractors.

Date: Wednesday March 9th, 2011
Time: 11:45 AM—1:00 PM; presentation to begin at noon
Location: DJ’s Dugout; 636 N. 114th St, Omaha, NE 68154
Cost: Buffet; $20 ($15 for Chapter members)
RSVP: http://www.sfpegreatplains.org/ no later than March, 2nd.

Topic: "How Nebraska Fire/Building Codes are Adopted" and "Updates on Current
Fire Related Issues Before the State Legislature"

To be presented by John Falgione, Nebraska State Fire Marshal. John Falgione was appointed as the Nebraska State Fire Marshal in January 2007 and has been a member of the State Fire Marshal's office since 1991. Previous positions have included serving as the deputy state fire marshal in both the investigations division and the code enforcement division. John began his service with the State Fire Marshal's office as an inspector in the flammable liquid storage division.

If you would like to receive information regarding the Chapter or would like to get involved, please contact Shane Cherney and plan to attend the Chapter kick-off meeting. A group webpage has been created to aid as a forum for discussion and keeping up to date with the group—you will also find chapter membership application information.

http://www.sfpe.org/ AND http://www.sfpegreatplains.org/. Contact Shane Cherney for Chapter Information: info@sfpegreatplains.org or 402-390-4236.

Colorado State University Green Building Course Offerings

2011-02-08T10:04:00.000-06:00

Colorado State University is currently offering Green Building and Green Homes courses to help you and your organization stay competitive and keep up-to-date with innovations in the green construction industry. Programs and certificates have been developed by Brian Dunbar, Director of CSU’s Institute for the Built Environment and may be completed online or in the classroom (Denver, CO).

These programs not only provide cutting-edge information as it relates to green construction, but they may also qualify as prerequisites to LEED accreditation and to LEED credential maintenance. LEED designation, offered by the U. S. Green Building Council, is now required in many industries striving to build new, and to remodel existing, sustainable homes and commercial buildings.

Here is a listing of the courses that Colorado State University is offering this spring, starting February 15. Buy 1 registration at full price – Receive 2nd registration at 50% off!

February 15, Online Green Building Certificate Program, Focus: Commercial Green Building, http://www.learn.colostate.edu/certificates/green-building-online/

March 1, Online Green Homes Certificate Program, Focus: Residential Green Building, http://www.learn.colostate.edu/courses/HSLL/HSLL4013.dot

March 10, Green Building Certificate Program – Denver, Focus: Commercial Green Building, http://www.learn.colostate.edu/certificates/green-building-denver/

Visit http://www.learn.colostate.edu/courses/noncredit/?subject_cat=44349#courselistings
to find out about more and view other green programs.

LEED Interpretations to be provided in addition to CIRs

2011-02-07T14:10:00.000-06:00

This new database will be another way that design teams may interact with the LEED rating system. It shares some similarities with the current Credit Interpretation Ruling (CIR) process, with some significant differences.

The goals of the LEED Interpretations project are as follows:
1. provide published guidance on issues not already covered in LEED materials
2. allow for a thorough USGBC staff and committee vetting process
3. can be referenced by any LEED project
4. available in an online search-able database

This builds on the project CIR process available now (3-4 weeks response time) to a total response time of 3-6 months. But the results are precedent-setting and published online after final rulings and USGBC committee review processes. LEED Interpretations will exclude questions that are too 'project-specific' and errors in the reference guide (which will be addressed via addendum).

Issues that do result in LEED Interpretations would be, for example, "Can electrolyzed water systems be used to meet the requirements of the Green Housekeeping ID Credit?"

CIR fee will remain $220 for all rating systems besides LEED for Homes, and the LEED Interpretations process will cost an additional $180 for USGBC members for a total of $400.

LEED Interpretations are planned to go live at the end of this month. Stay tuned for more information.

White House Proposes New Green Buildings Program

2011-02-04T15:53:00.000-06:00

By Tom Ichniowski

The White House has launched a package of proposals--including a new tax credit and grant competition among states and cities--that aim to make commercial buildings 20% more energy efficient over 10 years.

The "Better Buildings Initiative," which President Obama announced on Feb. 3 during an appearance at Penn State University, is targeting commercial buildings, which the White House says account for about 20% of total U.S.energy consumption. Read more at ENR.com

New Green Products Exhibit and Learning Center

2011-02-03T10:50:00.000-06:00

W. Cecil Steward, FAIA, President; Joslyn Castle Institute For Sustainable Communities
January 28, 2011 4:19 pm

The Nebraska Center for Sustainable Construction has created the Eco Products and Services Center (EPSC) to serve Lincoln, Omaha and the surrounding communities in Southeast Nebraska.

A division of the Nebraska Center for Sustainable Construction (NCSC) (joining two other existing divisions: EcoStores Nebraska and DeConstruction Nebraska) the EPSC is a “doing business as [dba]” division of the non-profit Joslyn Institute for Sustainable Communitities, with offices in Lincoln and Omaha.EPSC will provide a one-stop information center for green products and services.

The center’s main focus is products/services needed for the building/construction industry for commercial and residential retrofit and energy efficiency upgrades. Principal emphasis of the exhibit center, and the net benefit to the region, will be waste reduction through the use of salvaged and recycled content in new materials, and a broad mix of green product representatives from the area will increase conveniences for consumers.

Visit the Lincoln Green by Design website for additional information.

EPA Invites Your Input for an Upgrade of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager

2011-02-02T12:14:00.000-06:00

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is requesting input from stakeholders on the ENERGY STAR Tools specifically for the development of requirements for a Portfolio Manager upgrade. The full upgrade will take place over a period of 18-24 months. You can supply your input through the following website:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/portfoliomanagerupgradesurvey

State & Local Energy Report

2011-01-31T10:18:00.000-06:00

State & Local Energy Report is the only publication written for energy decision makers that merges energy news with policy updates, including the underlying science and innovative successes. The magazine is published every quarter, and the redesigned site, www.stateenergyreport.com, is updated daily with state and local energy news, multi-media, an Energy Directory and more. If you would like to sign up to receive a complimentary subscription please send your name and address to subscriptions@stateenergyreport.com.

Performance Beyond the Plaque

2011-01-31T10:17:00.001-06:00

By Jeremy Cohen, Government Sector Manager, USGBC
Green building is fundamentally about performance. As green becomes the norm for the design, construction, operations and maintenance of public buildings, LEED certification is understood as an important performance milestone as opposed to an end in and of itself. Government organizations are endeavoring to better communicate the performance behind the LEED plaque and to ensure progress toward the next milestone. Read more »

Omaha North High School addition earns LEED Silver certification

2011-01-31T09:06:00.000-06:00

Published: 28-Jan-2011, Omaha North High School’s four-storey addition in Nebraska, US has been recognised with LEED-Silver certification, becoming the first facility in the state of Nebraska to earn LEED certification under the LEED for Schools rating system.

This project is also the Omaha Public School's first LEED-certified project. The 1922-built school was in dire need of expansion as a result of expanding enrollment. Omaha North High School’s new building spanning 32,092 square feet has been designed by RDG Planning & Design to house science classrooms and labs, besides accommodating the school’s media technology and engineering programmes.

A string of sustainable features have been integrated into the facility, which helped it in acquiring the LEED-Silver certification. The building features a green room for video production with support rooms for sound recording and digital editing, and new practice facilities for the wrestling programme. Sustainable strategies paid full attention to energy efficiency, acoustics, day lighting, building as a learning tool, and the responsible use of materials.

The construction and design project has made use of 81% of wood harvested from FSC-certified sources. The building features a two-level greenhouse for biology which opens onto a green roof. This green roof, which can be used as a secondary teaching space, is totally covered by SRI-compliant material. The school building follows water-efficient landscaping. Harvested rainwater meets 100% of the irrigation needs.

The facility is fitted with low-flow sinks and dual-flush toilets reducing potable water use by 43%. Indoor air quality is enhanced by the use of low-emitting paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, flooring materials and composite woods.

Almost 19% of the building materials were manufactured within 500 miles of the jobsite, and 32% of the building materials constituted recycled content. Vrana diverted about 87% of the construction waste from the landfill, recycling scrap metal, concrete asphalt, wood drywall, cardboard packaging and landscaping waste.

Vrana Construction served as the construction manager for the project and Vertegy served as the LEED consultant. View the story from WIDN here.

LEED 2009 Sample Forms

2011-01-26T14:29:00.001-06:00

Sample forms for all LEED 2009 rating systems (including LEED for Neighborhood Development and LEED for Retail) are now available. To download, log into LEED Online and click "Sample Form Download" at top right. Sample forms are available in two formats. Project registration is not required. See LEED Online for more information.

Green Online Classes at Iowa Western Community College

2011-01-26T10:24:00.000-06:00

Green Building and LEED's Rating Certificate - When: January 31st - March 27th, Where: Online, Cost: $695 Get the knowledge to excel as a green professional in the new economy. Acquire an introduction to sustainability and how it lays the foundation for a deeper understanding of the green building process. Participants who successfully complete this course are eligible and prepared to sit for the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Associate exam. To Register: http://www.yougotclass.org/courses.cfm/Iwcc/Green-Buildings-and-Preparing-for-the-LEED-Green-Associate-Exam

Green Workplace - When: February 7th - March 4th, Where: Online, Cost: $195 - Includes a green workplace toolkit. A greener workplace can provide substantial benefits to your organization’s triple bottom line – people, planet and profits. By reducing the energy intensity their buildings and materials demand and waste, green workplaces can save money and reduce their impact on the environment. Come discover the keys to making green workplaces a success for you and your organization. This course is suitable for those new to green workplaces or already working in a green space and interested in enhancing their knowledge of what makes it a green space. To Register: http://www.yougotclass.org/courses.cfm/Iwcc/Green-Workplace

Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality Accepting Comments on the Nebraska State Implementation Plan

2011-01-26T10:22:00.000-06:00

Today is the last day to provide comments.

EPA is proposing to approve revisions to the Nebraska State Implementation Plan (SIP), which were recently submitted by the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ). These revisions include proposed changes to Nebraska's Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) program, submitted by NDEQ to EPA on November 19, 2010 and proposed changes to Nebraska's greenhouse gas (GHG) construction permit related regulations, submitted by NDEQ to EPA on October 19, 2010. EPA is soliciting comments from the public on whether it should initially only approve Nebraska's October 19, 2010 submittal and address Nebraska's November 19, 2010 submittal in a subsequent final action.For more information and to submit your comments, visit: http://www.waste-management-world.com/index/from-the-wires/wire-news-display/1329954844.html

Green Omaha Coalition Grassroots Competition Underway

2011-01-26T10:20:00.000-06:00

USGBC Nebraska Flatwater Chapter is proud to sponsor the GOC Grassroots Competition.

The GOC will continue the Grassroots Competition for 2011! Now in its THIRD year, the annual Grassroots Competition was developed as an incentive for students who want to help green their schools. Students are required to have a teacher or administrator as a sponsor, but they are the driving force in putting together a project that will improve their school’s environmental impact.

If your school is a winner, you could get a $1,000 grant for your school! The competition is currently offered to junior high and high school students in the Omaha metro-area. Entries will only be accepted until February 11th, so register today!

To learn more, visit the GOC website.

ECOmaha website now live!

2011-01-26T09:37:00.000-06:00

The mission of ECOmaha is to promote integrated decision-making and strategic actions by City government and the community-at-large that foster environmental quality, build community capacity, and advance economic opportunities for residents, businesses, and government.

ECOmaha is a collaborative effort to realize the goals identified in the Environment Element, a section of the City’s Master Plan approved by City Council in December 2010. The Environment Element offers a comprehensive and unifying vision, developed through a two-year community-based process, for the long-term environmental health and sustainability of the Omaha community and the natural resources and ecosystems on which it depends. To view the entire Environment Element including background issues and recommended strategies, visit City of Omaha’s Environment Element (PDF).

ECOmaha is coordinated by the City of Omaha’s Office of Sustainable Development, under the direction of the city’s Planning Department. The ECOmaha web site will be used to identify and communicate the Policies, Programs, Projects, and Progress related to Omaha’s sustainability initiatives. View the site at http://www.cityofomaha.org/ecomaha/

Last Chance :: FREE Building Science 3 R's Workshop

2011-01-25T14:21:00.001-06:00

Building Science 3 R's Workshop with Joseph Lstiburek :: January 27 & 28 at MCC's Fort Omaha Campus
Last Chance for this great workshop! - Please sign up by Wednesday (1/26) at 12noon.

Please share this great opportunity with anyone working in the building trades. This is normally a workshop which costs $795, but it is provided to Omaha at no cost because of grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Labor syNErgy Grant.

Details at this link: http://www.mccneb.edu/publicaffairs/html/Faculty_Development_Workshop_Building_Science.html

The Three R's is designed for builders, architects, engineers, building science consultants, building code officials, facility managers, building product manufacturers, government officials, and disaster and damage restoration professionals who specialize in water loss.
See full seminar agenda below at: www.buildingscienceseminars.com/seminars/the-three-rs-2010.aspx

Continuing Education for:AIA, BPI, ACAC, AIBD, IICRC, and RIA (details available at the above building science website.

Voluntary Initiatives Through-out the Country

2011-01-25T12:14:00.000-06:00

From coast to coast, cities, regions, and organizations around the country are sponsoring voluntary campaigns challenging building owners and managers to evaluate and reduce building energy consumption. Help your customers participate and be recognized for reducing their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. A few examples follow:

International Facility Management Association (IFMA) has launched the IFMA Energy Challenge for facilities to reduce their facility energy use by 15 percent or more.
BOMA International’s 7-Point Challenge urges the industry to reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings 30 percent by 2012.
BOMA Portland and BetterBricks launched Carbon4Square to challenge teams in the Northwest to improve building performance in four categories: energy, water, transportation, and waste.
Arlington County, Virginia’s “Arlington Green Games” is a competition for commercial properties to reduce costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Participants commit to a year-long program in which they receive ongoing training and support.

Measuring and Reporting Requirements for ARRA-Funded Programs

2011-01-25T12:13:00.001-06:00

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), also known as “the stimulus bill”, included billions of dollars for energy efficiency and clean energy investments. Two programs – the State Energy Program and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, each are channeling about $3 billion to state and local government grantees. The largest single use of these funds is to improve existing state and local government buildings, presenting opportunities for ENERGY STAR Service & Product Providers working with public buildings.

All ARRA-funded programs require measurement and reporting of performance, with many programs – from Maine to Utah – requiring or recommending Portfolio Manager as the preferred tool. Learn more.

Federal Agencies Now Required to Lease Space in ENERGY STAR Buildings

2011-01-25T12:11:00.000-06:00

ENERGY STAR requirement for Federal Leases. As of December 2010, federal agencies can only lease space in buildings that have earned the ENERGY STAR, according to the Energy Independence and Security Act, 2007. The new requirement affects all federal agencies renewing or entering into a new lease for more than 10,000 square feet.

Federal High Performance and Sustainable Buildings. EPA has partnered with DOE and the General Services Administration to incorporate the Federal High Performance Sustainable Buildings Checklist (i.e., “Guiding Principles Checklist” under Executive Order 13423) into Portfolio Manager. View an overview of using the checklist feature, and live and recorded training sessions.

Visit www.energystar.gov/EISA for more information and to register for a free webinar on the new leasing requirements tonsure that your buildings are “Federal ready.”

Are you EV ready?

2011-01-22T14:41:00.000-06:00

Reposted from http://aimgreenomaha.com/?p=1213

Two major auto companies have brought electric vehicles (EVs) into the mainstream recently by launching the all-electric Nissan Leaf and General Motors’ plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt. The Volt was recently awarded 2011 North American Car of the Year at the North American International Auto Show.

Electric vehicles are now rolling off assembly lines and are expected to hit the Omaha market later this year. With some of its customers planning to get their transportation fuel from the power grid instead of a gas pump, the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) has undertaken studies as to how this might affect its operations.

One of its first discoveries was that customers have a lot of questions about the new technology. To help keep its customers updated with the most current EV information, OPPD has launched a new website, www.OPPD.com/EV.

OPPD customers interested in purchasing an EV have many questions and pros and cons to consider. They can research types of EVs, learn about charging options and environmental benefits, complete an EV readiness checklist and find the latest incentives, news and resources at www.OPPD.com/EV. Site information includes:

• What You Need to Know Before You Buy an Electric Vehicle
• The Difference Between Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles and Battery Electric Vehicles
• Three Important Steps to Making Your Home Ready for an Electric Vehicle
• How OPPD is Preparing for Electric Vehicles
• Electric Vehicle Readiness Checklist

“The site will be continually updated with the latest, most relevant information related to EV advancements, so that EV purchasers can find everything they need in one place,” said Buettner.
For more information about EVs in the OPPD service area, visit www.OPPD.com/EV, call 1-855-OPPD4EV (1-855-677-3438) or send an email to oppd4ev@oppd.com.

New ConAgra plant sets ‘green’ standard

2011-01-22T14:38:00.000-06:00

By Ross Boettcher
WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER. View the article in its entirity at http://www.omaha.com/article/20110122/MONEY/701229877

ConAgra Foods’ sustainable sweet potato plant in Delhi, La., is being dubbed “Platinum” for being “green.”

Friday, the Omaha-based packaged food giant announced that its new Lamb Weston processing plant became the first frozen food manufacturing facility in the world to earn a platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. Platinum certification is the highest level offered.

The recognition for ConAgra is more than ceremonial and could break new ground for food manufacturing companies designing and building more energy-efficient and sustainable buildings and manufacturing plants in the future, an Omaha-based sustainability expert said.

“It’s exciting for a large organization like ConAgra to take these steps,” said Craig Moody, who is principal owner of Verdis Group, a “green” consulting firm in Omaha, and serves in leadership positions on numerous sustainability organizations. “When designing a building like this, it starts at day one. ConAgra made a commitment to make this a great, energy-efficient building.”

The Lamb Weston facility processes and packages sweet potatoes from Louisiana and surrounding states with cutting-edge equipment and materials, ConAgra said. It went online in September 2010. It’s the only platinum LEED-certified building in Louisiana.

Nebraska has two platinum LEED-certified buildings, the M.E. Group Office Building, 8040 Davenport St., and the headquarters building for Morrissey Engineering, 4940 N 118th St.

Moody said designing and constructing sustainable structures for LEED certification typically is more expensive, but most companies view those upfront charges as an investment for the utility and other cost savings that will take place in the future.

According to the U.S. Green Building Council, the sustainability of the building site; water efficiency; energy and atmosphere; materials and resources; indoor environmental quality; and the innovation and design process all are considered when certifying a structure under LEED guidelines.

Some of the features that helped the ConAgra facility earn certification were:

>> Interior climate control, which helps keeps workers safe from slipping because condensation and water buildup on plant floors is avoided.

>> Organic carpeting, cleaning products and paints, which reduce employee exposure to pollutants.

>> The piping of Biogas, a bi-product of treated wastewater, into the plant’s boilers to produce steam. The process offsets about 20 percent of the facility’s annual natural gas costs and prevents methane, a harmful gas, from entering the atmosphere.

>> At least 100 acres of surrounding land, including wetland areas and ponds, will be protected.

>> Priority parking for drivers of low-emission vehicles like hybrids and electric cars.

“We had an opportunity to build something from scratch and set out to build a great sustainable plant because it was right for the business and who we are as a company,” said Rick Martin, vice president for manufacturing at Lamb Weston. “We’ve been producing quality sweet potato products for the past 10 years, which allowed us to bring the best of what we’ve learned during that time to the design and construction of the Delhi plant.”

ASHRAE Scholarship Fundraiser Tourey

2011-01-21T11:52:00.000-06:00

Help support local Engineering Students with ASHRAE at their Lucky Bucket Brewery Tour. All proceeds go to provide (4) $1,000 scholarships to students in Engineering programs. $20 per reservation, Students and ASHRAE Guest receive a $5 discount!

Where: Lucky Bucket Brewing Company (11941 Centennial Road, Suite 1, La Vista, NE 68128-5623)
Date: February 18th, 2011
Time: 6pm - 10pm
RSVP: tyler.glesne@MEGroup.com

Sustainable Energy Program Information Meetings for 2011 LES Financial Incentives

2011-01-19T10:26:00.000-06:00

The following content appears courtesy of Lincoln Electric System's EnergyLine Newsletter.

If you are planning any projects that could increase your organization’s energy efficiency, you may be interested in LES financial incentives that will be available beginning Feb. 1. The first step for project eligibility is to attend one of the program meetings scheduled for 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. on Jan. 25 or Jan. 27 at The Center for People In Need, 3901 N. 27th St. Lincoln, NE.

Attendance is required at one of these meetings to be eligible to apply for incentives, even if you attended a meeting in 2010, because there are changes to the program. This meeting is for both Sustainable Energy Program participating contractors and business customers planning their own projects. Register now.

In 2010, over 800 customers received LES financial incentives for energy efficiency projects. Read about some of the projects:
- Lighting projects from Pfizer, Hy-Vee and Capitol City Church. Read the article.
- Pfizer’s chiller replacement , Capitol City Church’s energy management system, Hidden Valley - Golf Club’s variable frequency drive equipment and Universal Cold Storage’s quick freeze racking system. Read the article.

Following is a summary of the financial incentives.
- Residential Efficiency Incentives
- Whole-House Sealing and Insulation
- High-Efficiency Heat Pump and Central Air Conditioning
- Facility Efficiency Incentives
- Chiller Replacement at Pfizer Global Manufacturing
- Chiller Replacement
- Energy Management System Upgrade or Installation
- Heat Pump and Central Air Conditioning
- Lighting Retrofit
- Operations or Processes Efficiency Incentives
- Compressed Air System Audit
- Variable Frequency Drive Replacement
- Systems commissioning

The terms and conditions for each program will be available by visiting les.com after Feb. 1.

Benchmarking for Energy Success

2011-01-19T10:23:00.000-06:00

The following content appears courtesy of Lincoln Electric System's EnergyLine Newsletter.

Key Points

Benchmarking is a comparison of your energy performance with similar facilities.
Benchmarking programs spot inefficiencies and provide information for energy-management decisions.
The benchmarking process includes a focus on continuous improvement.

With rising energy costs and increased environmental awareness, more companies are becoming concerned with conservation and energy efficiency. Before you institute an energy management program or embark on an energy upgrade project, find out how energy efficient your facility is currently. While your energy bill will tell you how much you are spending on energy, it does not tell you how you are doing. For a good frame of reference, compare the energy consumption of your buildings and systems to similar facilities, particularly ones that have been recognized as energy efficient or have instituted energy best practices. Known as energy benchmarking, this is a useful tool in analyzing the energy performance of your facility.

The concept of benchmarking began in the manufacturing sector as a component of total quality management (TQM). It is used as a performance-measurement tool by which companies compare themselves to their competitors as a means of instituting process improvement measures. Energy benchmarking is the collection and analysis of energy-use data that provides facilities with a context for making comparisons. Armed with this information, facility managers can spot inefficiencies, identify energy-saving opportunities, and monitor performance improvements over time.

Energy benchmarking will benefit your facility in a number of ways, including the prioritization of your energy investments. Across your building portfolio, benchmarking provides a foundation for making solid energy-management decisions. Moreover, by comparing benchmarking scores, you can assess the cost-saving potential of efficiency improvements; tracking and evaluating them over time. Finally, by documenting superior energy performance, you can generate positive publicity for your organization by communicating a green image.

Read more, including steps for energy benchmarking, at http://members.questline.com/Article.aspx?articleID=5001&accountID=82&nl=10370&userID=149277