Audit Report: The Department of Energy's Opportunity for Energy Savings Through the Use of Setbacks in its Facilities

摘要

During 2008, the Department of Energy expended about $300 million to provide energy to over 9,000 Federal buildings at its facilities. A significant portion of those costs, up to 40 percent, were expended for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). Because of its size and scope, operating the Department's existing HVAC systems as efficiently as possible offers the promise of immediate and substantial energy and cost savings. In addition to the 'common sense' reasons for efficient and economic energy use, Federal agencies are specifically required to conserve energy by reducing heat or eliminating air conditioning during non-working hours. One of the primary means of achieving these savings is through the use of 'setback' controls, both mechanical and software, that decrease the temperature difference between the inside of the building and the outside of the building during non-working hours. Our review revealed that the Department of Energy Federal and (Department) had not ensured that energy setback Contractor Sites capabilities were fully utilized at its facilities. This despite the requirements established in 41 CFR 102-74.185, which require Federal agencies that occupy government-owned and leased buildings to operate heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in the most energy efficient and economical manner. Agencies must reduce heating temperatures to no higher than 55 degrees Fahrenheit during non-working hours and eliminate air-conditioning during non-working hours, except as necessary to return temperatures to a suitable level for the beginning of working hours.