Energy Efficiency Improvements in Buildings: An Environmentally Friendly Approach For Managing Electric Demand

emand-side management through the promotion of energy effi-cient technology can have a profound impact on the growth of the electric utility industry over the next 20 years. The greatest effects can be achieved in the residential and commercial build-ings markets, which represent two-thirds of all electricity consumed in the U.S. In this article, the major end uses of electricity in buildings are quantified and energy efficient technologies for each are reviewed. The historical impact and cost-effectiveness of government and utility effi-ciency programs is discussed. The capability of continued energy effi-ciency gains to slow the growth of demand for and consumption of electricity is projected. Keywords energy efficiency, buildings, demand side management, technology, economic