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Flex Your Power Case Study: City of Atascadero

An Effective Practice

Description

In response to the Governor's call to reduce energy use by 15 percent in government buildings, the City of Atascadero launched Phase I of a two-part energy conservation program that included no- and low-cost efforts in its six facilities. City staff compared monthly kilowatt readings for each facility over the previous three years to establish a baseline amount for all city-owned and city-operated buildings. City staff then prepared a cost/benefit report, which was revised by an external consultant, on various potential energy-saving solutions. Changes were made in HVAC settings, office equipment, weatherization, and employee training/behavior and schedules.

Goal / Mission

The goal of this project was to reduce energy usage in government buildings. Long-term objectives were: Research solar, wind and new roofing project; and consider replacing and upgrading wastewater treatment equipment, which was the city's biggest energy user (representing approximately 47 percent of the annual kilowatt usage.)

Results / Accomplishments

The city spent roughly $1,600 on improvements, which resulted in energy savings of 18,474 kWh per month or a 30 percent reduction when compared with usage in 2000. Atascadero also began investigating potential projects for Phase II, including solar and wind power and new roofing.

About this Promising Practice

Organization(s)
City of Atascadero
Primary Contact
Geoff English, Deputy Community Services Director
6500 Palma Ave.
Atascadero, CA 93422
(805) 461-5000
english@atascadero.org
http://www.atascadero.org
Topics
Environmental Health / Energy & Sustainability
Organization(s)
City of Atascadero
Source
Flex Your Power Efficiency Partnership
Date of publication
2006
Date of implementation
2000
Location
Atascadero, CA
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