EPAct 2005 – Tax Deductions for Commercial Buildings & Industrial Facilities

A tax deduction of up to $1.80 per square foot is available to owners or designers of new or existing commercial buildings that save at least 50% of the heating and cooling energy of a building that meets ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2001. Partial deductions of up to $.60 per square foot can be taken for measures affecting any one of three building systems: the building envelope, lighting, or heating and cooling systems. These tax deductions are available for systems “placed in service” from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2013.  For more information visit:  http://www.nema.org/gov/energy/upload/2005EnergyHandout _1_.pdf

EPAct 2005 – Mandates High Efficiency Transofmers

The Act requires Distribution Transformers manufactured after January 1, 2007 to meet specific energy efficiency requirements. The requirements are based on a specification developed by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) with assistance from transformer manufacturers and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The DOE has incorporated this standard, known as NEMA TP-1 and its’ associated testing (NEMA TP-2) into the new Federal Rule (10 CFR Part 431 in the Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 81 dated April 27, 2006). EPAct 2005 defines the term “distribution transformers” as any transformer which:

• Has an input voltage of 34.5 kV or less
• Has an output voltage of 600 V or less
• Is rated for operation at a frequency of 60 Hz
• Has a capacity of 10 kVA to 2500 kVA for liquid-immersed units and 15 kVA to 2500 kVA for dry-type units

ASHRAE / IESNA90.1

ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1 institutes power density limits for lighting (W/ft2). Credits are given for using lighting controls in the early versions, while it becomes mandatory in later versions of 90.1. This standard is used as a basis for state energy codes, and many states have adopted earlier or the most recent version. To check the status of adoption of ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1 by states into their energy codes, visit: http://www.ashrae.org/technology/page/548

Federal Ballast Rule 2000

Lighting Elements raise the efficiency requirements for fluorescent T12 lamp/ballast systems. The 2000 Rule set standards for ballasts used to operate full-wattage T12 lamp and the EPAct 2005 legislation added standards for ballasts used to operate energy saving T12 lamp types. Both cover ballasts used to operate the most popular T12 lamp types: 4-foot, rapid start; 2-foot, rapid start, U-shaped; 8-foot, instant start; and 8-foot, high output (HO) rapid start. As of July 1, 2010, even replacement ballasts that do not meet standards can no longer be sold.

The Energy Independence & Security Act (P.L. 110-140, H.R. 6)

Is an energy policy law that consists mainly of provisions designed to increase energy efficiency and the availability of renewable energy. For more information visit: http://energy.senate.gov/public/_files/RL342941.pdf

Federal Consumer Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency

Please visit the Energy Star website for more information.
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits