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Thinking 'Green'
New Construction
Renovations
Your EEQ - Energy Efficient Quotient
How Much Can You Save?
Construction Resources

Overview

Buildings are among the top energy users in the United States. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency reports that commercial buildings consume 36 percent of all the energy and 65 percent of all the electricity used in the United States.

Add the fact that energy is among the top expenses in a restaurant’s operating budget, and you see the impact that energy conservation can have on both your restaurant and the environment.

Experts say that a business can increase its net operating income (NOI) by 5 percent with just a 30 percent decrease in their building’s energy consumption. On top of that, an energy-efficient, 'green' building adds value to overall operation and investment.

Thinking 'Green'

A 'green' building is one designed, built, renovated or reused so that the structure conserves energy, uses resources more efficiently and reduces the overall impact on the environment.

The first step toward green building is adopting a green strategy that focuses on energy savings. For some that means building a green, energy-efficient certified restaurant from the ground up. For others, going green means retrofitting a current building to meet energy-efficiency standards.

Whether your green building starts from the ground up or is part of a remodel, you can find financing to fund or offset your efforts through energy rebates, tax incentives and deductions available from national, state and local agencies.

New Construction

If you are planning to build from scratch, consider these suggestions to make your restaurant energy-efficient inside and out.

LEED certified architect/contractor — Use an architect or contractor who is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design)-certified and trained in building a structure that considers the national standards for green construction:
- Sustainable site development
- Water savings
- Energy efficiency
- Materials selection
- Indoor environmental quality
Location. Location. Location — Select a site with easy access to public transportation. Build on a Brownfield site -- one that has been built on before. (A Brownfield site not only saves undeveloped land but also may qualify your restaurant for tax incentives and property savings.)
Think natural -- Be sure your building is placed in the best spot to optimize natural daylight and that the design capitalizes on available natural light.

Renovations

With every renovation you do, incorporate energy efficiency into your plans. Or go green with a total remodel centered on energy efficiency. But whatever you do, consider these green suggestions:

Research energy savings — Look for incentives and tax breaks available for energy upgrades. Ask your utility if they offer free energy audits and rebates for upgrades.
Work with LEED experts — Invite a LEED-certified architect or contractor to tour your facility to give you ideas on how to green your improvements. Use a LEED energy professional to manage your renovation.
Budget for green — Building for energy efficiency can up the cost of your construction. Although a green building approach may cost more up front, you will likely save money in operating costs over the life of the building.

Your EEQ -- Energy Efficiency Quotient

Keep your building’s EEQ (energy efficiency quotient) in mind as you remodel or build. Use green-smart materials and green strategies that save energy inside and out.

Recyclables — Use recycled hardwood flooring, bricks, stones and paving materials. Find ways to incorporate used structural steel, plumbing fixtures and cabinets in your building. Recycle your used construction materials to keep as much as possible out of landfills.
Non-wood and wood products — Use wood composites made of agricultural waste and non-wood materials. Or use FSC-certified wood from sustainable, well managed forests.
Insulation — Insulate exterior walls, floors, and ceilings to maximize heating and cooling. Put insulation batting and caulk around windows and doors.
Natural light — Install skylights and windows where possible to save on lighting and heating costs. To control window lighting, use blinds.
Roofing — Putting on a reflective roof can lower roof temperatures by up to 100 degrees and in some cases qualify you for tax credits. Or if you go with a traditional roof, use light colored roofing materials.
Efficient lighting — Use high-efficiency lighting inside and out. Control light use with dimmable switches, timers and motion detectors.
Heating & cooling — Make sure the heating/cooling system is properly sized. Too big a system is wasteful and expensive to operate. Systems too small struggle to maintain temperatures.
Alternative energy — Consider using solar panels as an energy source. Look for products with photovoltaics and fuel cells. Most alternative energy-operations come with tax rebates and incentives.
Smart windows — Place windows in areas that offer natural ventilation to take advantage of winds and thermal convention. Install double-paned windows to insulate against heat and cold.
Landscaping — Add greenery to absorb heat and lower temperatures around your building. Plant drought resistant native or adapted trees and plants so you water less. Use recycled mulch to retain water around plants. Create a green roof of plants to insulate against cold and hot temperatures, absorb energy and reduce water flow.

How Much Can You Save?

Building a green restaurant or retrofitting your restaurant for energy efficiency can be rewarding, environmentally and financially. Going green often makes a restaurant eligible for substantial tax incentives, tax credits, rebates or special offers.

Tax incentives