Leading By Example - Orlando Utility Commission

As the energy crisis intensifies, we are all called upon to make green changes in our lives. One of the simplest and most cost-effective places to start is in our home. Being cognizant of our habits and retrofitting home materials to be energy efficient can save money and the planet.

Sometimes its frustrating to make personal changes only to see companies or the government being wasteful. In Orlando, Florida the Orlando Utility Commission (OUC) is actually leading the charge for energy efficiency.

In Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, Gold is the highest standard for an environmentally friendly building. The new OUC building has been granted gold certification for its numerous advanced efficiency features.

Some of the green components include:

• Non-reflective roof to reduce heat trapped in the urban core, also called a "heat island."
• Rain water collection for irrigation.
  
• Solar energy and solar water heating.
• High efficiency glass windows.
• Recycled Materials.
• Priority parking for bicycles, fuel efficient and low emissions vehicles.

To read about the green features of the new OUC building, click HERE.

To view the OUC's green guide, click HERE.