ASHRAE has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S. Dept. of Energy, formalizing its co-operation with the U.S. government to implement a number of initiatives to improve energy efficiency in buildings.
According to a statement on the ASHRAE website, one of the goals of the MoU is to collaborate "in the development and implementation of the safe use of next-generation refrigerants and concurrently improve equipment energy efficiency."
Other goals in the agreement include:
Encouraging the continued development of voluntary consensus-based standards related to energy efficiency. Encouraging the adoption of technologically feasible and economically justified energy efficiency measures in each succeeding version of Standard 90.1 (Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings) by states to ensure energy and cost savings. Encouraging the use of advanced energy design concepts. Cooperation to provide and encourage the use of clear and consistent information to the building industry about building energy rating and labeling. Work within the building community and related professions to encourage the interoperability of building-related software and integrated solutions.
The MoU was signed by Sheila J. Hayter, 2018-2019 president of ASHRAE and Daniel R. Simmons, assistant secretary for the U.S. Dept. of Energy's (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) on May 22.
“This MoU agreement represents a valuable coordination of resources between ASHRAE and the Department of Energy which establishes a solid framework to facilitate advances within the built environment,” said Hayter. “We look forward to working with DOE on innovative approaches toward the attainment of sustainable development in all communities.”
“We look forward to working with DOE on innovative approaches toward the attainment of sustainable development in all communities.”– Sheila Hayter, ASHRAE
