FARM ENERGY SYSTEMS GUIDE Efficient Agricultural

Abstract: Efficiency-focused building designs reduce the use of materials and energy in building construction and operation. Planning for efficiency can help save money and improve building performance. This publication discusses several ways to improve the efficiency of agricultural buildings and provides further references for implementing those strategies. Topics covered include suiting a building to its site, using natural systems, using renewable energy, conserving energy, and conserving material resources in construction. Efficient buildings can save money and im-prove comfort while reducing resource consump-tion. Designers and builders nationwide are cre-ating new buildings that save energy and water, use fewer material resources, and create less waste. Through the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating system (1), the federal Energy Star ® certification (2), and green build-ing programs in states and communities, the building industry is developing standards tha