WASHINGTON - The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) has announced the publication of a new report, "Emerging Energy-Saving Technologies and Practices in the Buildings Sector as of 2004." This analysis reviewed 200 technologies and practices (T&Ps) in order to select those that promise to (1) save at least 0.25 percent of national electricity use; (2) avoid "lost opportunities" in new construction, rehab, or equipment replacement; or (3) capture important regional opportunities. Short summaries of 66 T&Ps are provided.

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.