According to ACEEE, of the 66 measures described in the report, the most attractive candidates include two distribution system improvements (leakproof ducts and duct sealing) and two practices (design of high-performance commercial buildings and retro-commissioning). These show particularly high energy savings potential and are also cost effective, says the organization.

"Not surprisingly, many technologies from earlier editions of this report have spread through the marketplace," stated Dr. Harvey Sachs, lead author of the study and ACEEE's buildings program director.

"Fortunately, innovators continue to introduce new T&Ps that enable the careful building owner to measure and manage energy consumption, and to ratchet down energy bills in the face of rising fuel prices."

Steven Nadel, ACEEE's executive director, observed, "The most promising of these technologies and practices can save this nation hundreds of billions of kilowatt-hours, and all at a cost per saved kilowatt-hour that is far lower than the cost of generating that power.

"The buildings sector is one of the largest in our energy economy, so for our nation, the potential monetary savings are huge, even before taking into account the productivity, energy security, and environmental benefits that will accrue."

The report can be downloaded for free in part or in whole or can be ordered in hard copy for $75 at http://www.aceee.org/store/proddetail.cfm?ItemID=381&CategoryID=7.

For more information, contact ACEEE Publications, 1001 Connecticut Ave. N.W., Suite 801, Washington, DC 20036-5525; 202-429-0063; 202-429-0193 (fax); aceee_publications@aceee.org.

Publication date: 12/27/2004