Energy Design Resources is funded by California utility customers under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.
Daylighting is the use of windows, skylights, and shading devices to distribute natural light inside a building. Intended to provide amenable work and living environments, daylighting can also significantly reduce the need for electric lighting.
Multi-level switching allows some of the electric lighting in a space to be switched off while maintaining a reasonably uniform distribution of light suitable for work.
High efficiency HVAC equipment is heating and cooling equipment that meets a higher efficiency rating than federal appliance standards require.
Variable-frequency drives reduce energy consumption by controlling motor speed and reducing it to match the actual load.
Occupancy sensors detect movement to determine when a space is occupied. They can switch off lights, HVAC equipment, or appliances when the space is unoccupied.
Evaporative pre-coolers reduce air conditioner load by cooling the air that surrounds air conditioner condensers.
Economizers reduce cooling energy consumption by allowing cool outside air into buildings, which reduces or eliminates the need for mechanical cooling.
Cool roofs have a combination of reflectance and emittance properties that keep them cool on hot days. They reduce the cooling loads of buildings, especially during peak times.