Although many homeowners across the U.S. are taking advantage of energy efficient changes, building owners and construction companies are now beginning to do the same. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 6 million U.S. commercial and industrial buildings account for about 45 percent of greenhouse emissions, and on average 30 percent of those emissions are actually wasted.

The EPA estimates that improving the energy efficiency of those buildings by just 10 percent could reduce greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking 30 million cars off the road.

A recent study conducted by Retroficiency's Building Genome Project found that making seasonal changes in thermostat temperature, even by just 1 degree, could save $145 million or about 2 percent of energy within all the buildings that were studied. 

What other steps can building owners and construction companies take to make energy efficient changes now?

• Change the light bulbs: Light bulbs are huge wasters of energy, especially those that are older or aren't energy efficient.  An Energy Star-rated light bulb uses 70 to 90 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs, lasts 10 to 25 times longer and saves between $30 to $80 in electricity costs over its lifetime.
• Check the HVAC system: Ensure the HVAC system is in complete working order. Often, energy is lost through heating or ventilation systems that haven't been cleaned. This can also improve occupant health and productivity over the years.
• Revamp the windows: When was the last time the windows in your building were changed? By replacing the windows for more energy efficient ones, as well as tinting them or adding treatments, warmth and light can be kept at optimal levels.

Energy efficiency is an important fixture in a building. Consider scheduling an energy efficiency audit to learn more.