Energy Star's Portfolio Manager is an interactive energy management tool that allows you to track and assess energy and water consumption across your entire portfolio of buildings in a secure online environment. Whether you own, manage, or hold properties for investment, Portfolio Manager can help you set investment priorities, identify under-performing buildings, verify efficiency improvements, and receive EPA recognition for superior energy performance. A recent EPA report shows that LA and San Francisco top the list of cities with the most energy efficient buildings from the Portfolio Manager database. Link to Article.

Energy efficiency is the cornerstone of our nation's emerging energy policy. You can't listen to a discussion about energy - whether it be nuclear, alternative or fossil fuel based - without energy efficiency being part of the mix. It just makes sense. Our nation's buildings consume 40% of all energy used in this country and 10% of all global energy. There is a direct correlation between energy consumed and greenhouse gases emitted. Our buildigns are major contributors to global warming.

There is room for improvement in every building, even new buildings. Up to 50% of a commercial building's energy costs can be saved through making energy efficient improvements. Some of these are low cost or no cost options, like turning off equipment when not in use. Some upgrades involve changing out fluorescent lights for even more energy efficient options or upgrading the heating and cooling system. Although these involve an initial capital investment, just look at Adobe Systems, Inc. for inspiration - Adobe is saving $1.2 million annually and getting a 121% ROI on their commitment to green operations and maintenance. If you aren't motivated to do it for the environment, do it for your bottom line and you'll be helping the environment too.