Energy Reduction Plan for State Buildings

Summary

On November 10, 2005, Minnesota’s Governor signed Executive Order 05-16 committing to the ENERGY STAR Challenge by requiring all state agencies to improve energy efficiency in state-owned buildings by 10% in the subsequent calendar year. In order to achieve these energy-conservation goals, agencies must keep heating temperatures below the maximum levels allowed by this order and keep cooling temperatures above minimum requirements. These levels vary by building type, and computer rooms, research facilities, and special care facilities are exempt from these limits. State agencies are also required to incorporate Minnesota Sustainable Guidelines and energy efficiency programs provided by utilities in new construction projects, to implement improvements in existing buildings through partnerships with energy services companies, and to re-commission existing buildings to maximize utility rebates. Additional requirements include adopting “prudent energy procurement strategies,” such as purchasing alternative fuels for heating during summer months and procuring natural gas and other fuels through energy forward pricing mechanisms. The University of Minnesota and the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities are also encouraged to adopt energy-conservation measures in institutional buildings. In April 2007 the Departments of Administration and Commerce issued an Energy Savings Report to the Governor stating that agencies subject to the Executive Order had achieved energy use reductions of 4.8% in 2006 compared to 2005 with several agencies posting double-digit percentage reductions. The report also states that it is the intent of the departments to achieve the goal during the 2007 calendar year. Six agencies have surpassed the 10% requirement as of 2007. Although recent information on implementation of this policy is not available, by Minnesota law (Minn. Stat. §4.035) the order will remain in effect until it is rescinded or until 90 days after the issuing Governor (Tim Pawlenty) leaves office.