Skip to main content
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Standby Conservation Plan No. 2: emergency building temperature restrictions. Economic analysis

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6321703

The Emergency Building Temperature Restrictions Plan is intended to be implemented in the event of a petroleum-supply interruption or to satisfy the obligations of the United States under the International Energy Program. To analyze the economic impact of the measure, it is assumed that the measure is implemented during 1980-1981 in a hypothetical petroleum shortfall of 15%. The plan is designed to reduce energy consumption by placing restrictions on thermostat settings for heating, cooling, and hot water in commercial, industrial, and public buildings. Specifically, the plan would mandate a maximum thermostat setting of 65 F for space heating, a minimum setting of 80 F for space cooling, and a maximum setting of 105 F for hot water. Hotels and motels, hospitals, and areas of buildings where specific temperatures are required to maintain special equipment or supplies are exempt. Also exempt is hot water used for dishwashing and other uses where health codes require higher temperatures for sanitation. Effects of the measure on worker comfort and productivity are discussed in the appendices. (MCW)

Research Organization:
Department of Energy, Washington, DC (USA). Economic Regulatory Administration
OSTI ID:
6321703
Report Number(s):
DOE/ERA-0047
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English