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Title: Cost-effectiveness of single and multiple CACS conservation actions in small commercial buildings

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5339708

The cost-effectiveness of single and multiple retrofit energy conservation actions in small commercial buildings is presented. This information will be useful to states and utilities as they develop audit procedures under the Commercial and Apartment Conservation Service (CACS) Program. Four small commercial buildings, prototypical of those covered by CACS, in six different cities are considered. The energy savings were computed using DOE-2.1, an hourly simulation computer code. The retrofit was assumed to be installed by a professional, and two electric rate schedules were used. Using terminology for conservation actions as defined by the CACS Rule, reduced light levels; the addition of local switches; and automatic controls for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems were always found to be cost-effective (simple payback period <5 years) everywhere. Air conditioner replacement was found to be generally cost-effective in the hot climates, and furnace replacement was only modestly cost-effective in the coldest climates. Building envelope retrofits, such as ceiling insulation, wall insulation, and caulking/weather stripping, were generally cost-effective, or nearly so, in the colder climates but only slightly cost-effective in the warmest climates; storm/thermal windows and storm doors were not cost-effective anywhere. 6 refs.

Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-84OR21400
OSTI ID:
5339708
Report Number(s):
ORNL/CON-176; ON: DE85018169
Resource Relation:
Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products. Original copy available until stock is exhausted
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English