Government to set up $130m building efficiency research center

February 15, 2010

The Obama Administration is to create a new regional research center to help develop new technologies to improve the energy efficiency of buildings.

Seven federal agencies are to release a total $129.7 million over the next five years for the initiative, with most of this coming from the Department of Energy.

With buildings accounting for nearly 40% of US energy consumption, the idea is to find new ways to cut electricity bills, save on carbon emissions while also creating jobs and stimulating the economy.

The intention is for an Energy Regional Innovation Cluster to be set up, based around an Energy Innovation Hub that brings together researchers from different disciplines under one roof to solve priority challenges and help new technologies towards commercialization.

This work will be supported by agency investments in the technologies and their business development as well as the training of specialized workers.

The planned Innovation Cluster will be based at a university, National Laboratory, non-profit organization or private firm, working with local or state officials and making use of local expertise.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu said: “This unique partnership will not only advance the development of new, energy efficient technologies, it will help local governments, businesses, and homeowners save money on their utility bills by putting the technology to work.

“Energy efficient buildings represent one of our best and most immediate opportunities to create jobs, save money and cut carbon pollution,” added Secretary Chu.