When building officials questioned whether HVAC fabric air dispersion could outperform metal ductwork/register systems in a new $17 million community center, consulting engineering firm Millcreek Engineering Co. used its own custom-designed proprietary modeling software to demonstrate its performance.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a proposed finding that greenhouse gases contribute to air pollution that may endanger public health or welfare. The proposed finding, which now moves to a public comment period, identified six greenhouse gases that pose a potential threat.

Macy’s Inc. and Field Diagnostic Services Inc. (FDSI) have announced a plan to partner in California to optimize the air conditioning unit performance at Macy’s stores and distribution centers across the state. Macy’s analysis suggests the company could save approximately 20 percent on a/c related operating costs.

Business customers throughout utility AmerenUE’s service territory now have $24 million in incentives available to them to help them save electricity and money. The new Business Energy Efficiency Program gives any nonresidential customer incentives to help cover the cost of making efficiency upgrades.

For New Yorkers bracing against high home energy costs this heating season, relief is available through the Home Performance with Energy Star® Program. Implemented by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the program aims to improve the energy efficiency, comfort, and safety of existing homes.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) reports that it has eight Regional Application Centers (RAC) located throughout the United States that provide information about utilizing combined heat and power (CHP) technologies as a near-term solution to energy challenges.

Combined Insurance encourages employers to consider voluntary benefits programs as an incentive to help retain employees. The company says these programs can be a cost-effective way for employers to reduce labor costs, yet help retain workers by providing access to disability, life, and other insurance.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) will fire up its Renewable Fuel Heat Plant (RFHP) this fall as the weather gets colder. The new $3.3 million boiler facility will heat South Table Mountain Campus laboratory buildings by burning wood chips that includes trees lost to the region’s mountain pine beetle epidemic.

Massachusetts’ investor-owned electric utilities have introduced a new energy efficiency pilot program called the “Zero Energy Challenge.” The purpose of the initiative is to promote the use of advanced energy efficiency technologies and engage Massachusetts homebuilders in utilizing advanced building techniques.

Most days, Lenoir City, Tenn., resident Kim Charles doesn’t even notice the solar panels on her roof, the hum of her SEER 17 heat pump water heater, or the integrated design that places most of her home’s plumbing within one wall, saving energy. What she does notice is an electricity bill that averages about 41 cents per day.