Understanding elements within the EPAct 179D is important to all architects and engineers. An important aspect within the EPAct is utilizing renewable energy for the construction and operation of commercial buildings or properties. Unfortunately, many people are unsure of what this means for them or why it is important. This blog is going to explore what renewable energy is, why it is important, and how builders can use it in the construction and operation of any structure.
What Is Renewable Energy?
Simply put, renewable energy is anything that is not easily or already depleted. This is why people constantly talk about wind and solar power when building a structure. These two resources are natural and energy efficient, making sure that hardly any damage is done to the environment while not depleting earth’s precious and limited other natural resources.
Other sources that are considered renewable resources for energy are rainwater, tides, and waves, though rainwater can come and go making it difficult to operate anything if a drought occurs. Old mills regularly used water from lakes and rivers to run the grinding stone and many people think commercial buildings can do something similar. Another term that many often discuss is “bioenergy,” which comes from an organic mixture of plants. This is often used in eco-friendly fuels.
Why Does The EPAct 179D Believe It Is Important?
There are incredible benefits to using renewable energy for all structures whether they are commercial buildings under the EPAct 179D section or residential buildings under the EPAct 45L section. Among these benefits is the obvious help to the environment because renewable energy does not use harsh chemicals to power anything, keeps greenhouse gas emissions down and keeps the few and precious resources the earth has safe. It also promises to be around forever, giving energy to future generations instead of current generations worrying about a future shortage of fossil fuels or chemicals.
Another great benefit of renewable energy usage is that it will help create jobs in local areas for maintenance. Because of the various laws, many green building projects will require workers from local communities instead of hiring people outside of the city or state. Renewable energy will be a lifesaver for the current economy.
How Can Builders Use Renewable Energy?
Architects and engineers can craft a building that utilizes the main sources of renewable energy such as solar and wind power. Many appliances now come with renewable energy capabilities and buildings can use solar powered water heaters. When putting in lighting systems, they can use LEDs instead of the typical fluorescent bulbs, which create a harsh impact the environment. There are many other ways builders can use renewable energy and they can find out these ways from local government agencies or other government resources regarding their particular building project under the EPAct 179D.
Renewable energy is one of the greatest ways to lessen the carbon footprint humanity is leaving and ensuring all generations have energy. Claris Energy is an energy solutions company that helps builders in finding the best ways to utilize renewable resources in their building projects. Contact Claris Energy today to learn more.
Steve Nanos
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