Green Building Practices, Texas

Who knew the light would be so green in Texas?  Many Texas businesses and department stores are taking advantage of the tax breaks and the state-wide support to make some renovations that will accommodate some of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) building standards.  Using less energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions is the main focus of greener choices in the Texas business community.

Some of the green building practises are used in brand new buildings that have been recently constructed.  Other businesses are renovating; putting some big bucks out there that will pay off in reduced daily operating costs and help save our diminishing natural resources.

What can you do to make your place of business a green building?

•    install a photovoltaic system to convert natural light into electricity
•    use solar panels and solar heated water
•    make room for solatubes, a device that diffuses natural sunlight from the roof into the interior of the building
•    add automatic light switch dimmers or timers to reduce the amount of artificial light used
•    consider meeting other power needs with energy derived from biomass digesters, a contained system which converts organic matter into a mix of carbon dioxide and methane gas; this can be used to power an engine generator and make hot water
•    replace windows and door with energy efficient and newer seals
•    insulate anywhere you can to keep out excess heat or retain cooler air where necessary

Many states are providing tax credits for any efforts to increase green council building practises.  Tax deductions for energy saving devices also extend to individual home owners in addition to the savings you will experience on forthcoming fuel bills.

Check with your local municipality or The Leed for information on green building practises, tax reductions, or grants and rebates for green renovations.

Tagged as: green building practises, LEED® standards, texas