The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that nearly half of the organizations recognized as Energy Star Leaders have improved the energy efficiency of their building portfolios by 20 percent or more.

The market for energy efficiency projects delivered by energy service companies (ESCOs) in the United States exceeded $5.1 billion in 2011, according to a new report from Pike Research. This market is expected to continue to grow faster than the domestic economy and reach at least $13 billion in sales by 2020.

Carrier announced the introduction of its Energy Experts program at the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Indoor Air Expo in Las Vegas. A nationwide program for Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers, the company said that Energy Experts focuses on improving home performance and reducing consumer’s energy costs.

Downstate Illinois utility Ameren Illinois is reminding its electric and natural gas business customers looking to reduce their energy expenses that the project deadline is approaching for participation in the 2011-12 ActOnEnergy® efficiency incentives program.

To help building owners reduce their energy costs, a new building labeling program is available from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) that not only rates buildings according to the in-operation energy use but also provides owners with suggested measures that can improve energy efficiency.

As one of the latest concepts to emerge from the trend toward sustainability, high-performance (HP) buildings are generating a lot of buzz. And the role of HVAC equipment and those who install it is rapidly developing in response to this construction trend.

The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) launched its Building Performance Council (BPC).

Homeowners are being very careful about making investments in home energy savings. According to a recent survey, they are demanding significant energy cost savings to justify any investments of time and money required to install highly efficient HVAC systems, and they have grown more skeptical about promises of a quick payback.

As part of the Obama administration’s blueprint for an American economy built to last, Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced the availability of up to $5.2 million in fiscal year 2012 to develop improved building efficiency technologies, including advanced heating and cooling systems.

Carrier Corp. recently introduced its Energy Experts program. The nationwide program is designed for Carrier factory authorized dealers and focuses on improving home performance and reducing consumer energy costs.