Mission Germany Lights The Way

US Consulate Hamburg is converting security lighting fixtures with halogen bulbs and voltage regulators (at 82 watts each) to OBO-approved fixtures with compact fluorescent bulbs (at 42 watts each). The change yields an annualized savings of 3,600 kWh or a 1.3% reduction in electricity consumption compared to calendar year 2009. This step builds on a total 11.9% reduction in electricity consumption achieved at the Consulate Office Building (COB) during 2009.

This change is carbon neutral because the consulate converted to a green energy utility provider on January 1, 2009 – which, coincidentally was:

• a budget neutral change, going from 9.85 € Ct./kWh to € 9.84 Ct./kWh,
• a 146-ton reduction of carbon emissions for the switch to a green source provider, and
• a 10-ton reduction of carbon emissions for the lower electrical consumption during 2009.

Via Mission Germany’s collaborative Energy Savings Initiative, post Munich is already exploring whether it can apply this approach to a similar problem of high energy consumption security lighting.

Copenhagen Earth Day Video Celebrates Accomplishments

Reducing Energy Consumption through Lighting Doesn't Always Demand Complex Solutions

Valletta Reduces Energy Consumption through Lighting:

- Each workstation will have individually controlled energy efficient task lights allowing the occupants to make individual adjustments and allow overall lighting levels to be reduced
- Occupancy sensors will automatically turn off lights when the rooms are vacant

Daylight harvesting techniques include:
- Automatic daylight dimming illumination for fixtures adjacent to windows to utilize daylight
- Light shelves reflect natural daylight back into
open office spaces

LEED in Sofia

The Embassy in Sofia was the first to be awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) when it was constructed. The features include a pulse-powered water treatment system, water saving fixtures and a drip irrigation system to reduce water consumption. More than 95% of the light bulbs is energy saving and light sensors ensure that lights are turned off when areas are not in use or when there is sufficient daylight. Timers are similarly used to shut down systems after hours. Solar water heaters and a heat exchange connected to the hot water system are utilized to reduce energy use. In addition, greater insulation has been obtained through the thermal properties of the external materials. Outside containers also promote recycling by employees after hours.

Embassy London Goes Zonal

In January 2009, the building Energy Saving Project was completed, having reached its energy and money saving targets. All floors are now divided into zones, which are lit between 6.15 am and 7 pm. During nights and weekends, lights are turned off. Each zone has a light switch, in the event that someone has to work at hours when the lights are turned off. Pressing the button will light the zone for 6 hours and when leaving, a reset button can be used to turn off the lights. As of 2008, IT has also implemented Wake on LAN or WOL for all OpenNet work stations, implying energy saving computer shutdowns between 8 pm and 7 am.

Turning Off The Lights in Brussels

In January 2009, the building Energy Saving Project was completed, having reached its energy and money saving targets. All floors are now divided into zones, which are lit between 6.15 am and 7 pm. During nights and weekends, lights are turned off. Each zone has a light switch, in the event that someone has to work at hours when the lights are turned off. Pressing the button will light the zone for 6 hours and when leaving, a reset button can be used to turn off the lights. As of 2008, IT has also implemented Wake on LAN or WOL for all OpenNet work stations, implying energy saving computer shutdowns between 8 pm and 7 am.

EMBASSY NICOSIA GREENING IS CHEAP!

The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia has taken not only several “green” steps, but also achieved major cost-cuts and benefitted the environment. They have reduced energy consumption throughout the Chancery by only using desk lamps and fluorescent bulbs for lighting and reduced residential heating fuel by 50%. They planted drought-resistant plants, pooled printers, and installed reflective window film. They distributed utility bills to the residents and established a “Green Award” for those who lower their costs the most. It’s not too late! Follow in Nicosia’s foot-steps and not only will you benefit, but so will your children.