Government could have a huge impact on energy efficiency if they make building codes for residential and commercial buildings more stringent. The most common places a home loses energy is through lost heated/cooled air. These loses happen through poorly insulated walls, attics, and roofs, low r-value windows, and cracks/insulation gaps. These energy loses are relatively easy to prevent in new construction houses. Government should implement better building codes to insure new construction houses or businesses are well insulated and well made structures.
To thoroughly implement energy efficiency someone knowledgeable in making energy efficient structures will need to be available to guide contractors through the process. My business would provide consultation services on building to or beyond government energy efficiency standards and building codes. This would include an initial consultation on a per site basis and carry on through a final energy audit of the building to ensure maximum efficiency. The consultation service will increase the value of the home by increasing energy efficiency which is high in demand. The efficient nature of the home will make a smaller foot print on the environment. The consumer, the builder, and the environment all benefit equally.
Sources:
Department of Energy. “Air Sealing for New Construction”. May 2, 2010. Retrieved 9/14/2014. http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/air-sealing-new-home-construction
I recently replaced the windows in my home and added insulation to my attic, which reduced my heating bill substantially. These were only two efficiency upgrades and I witnessed a very helpful monetary savings. I believe if people were better educated on these efficiency issues they would add them to their homes or businesses. This is where the consulting field comes into play and why I also believe there is growth for consulting. I think our government should advertise and promote energy efficiency better than it has.
Here is a link to my blog: http://engr312.dutton.psu.edu/2014/09/14/mark-moore-efficiency-consulting-l3/
I love the idea of the consulting service. Another service that you could offer would be to make yourself an expert on all things that the government requires for the efficiency programs. If you could offer contractors the ability to take nearly all government related paperwork off their table, that would be an tremendously valuable service. Let them simply concentrate on getting the buildings up.
You can read my blog at:
http://engr312.dutton.psu.edu/2014/09/15/lesson-3-pittman/