Charlotte ranks 21 on EPA’s list of cities with most Energy Star certified buildings

Charlotte, North Carolina, earned the 21st spot on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) “Top Cities” list, which recognizes the American cities and metropolitan areas with the most Energy Star certified commercial buildings.

"Every year, more cities and buildings are turning to energy efficiency to protect the environment and strengthen their local economies,” EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said. “Money saved on energy bills can boost the bottom line and be reinvested. The cities on this list prove energy efficiency saves money, improves our communities today, and helps us build toward a healthy future full of opportunity.”

Energy Star buildings are independently verified to perform more efficiently than 75 percent of comparable buildings nationwide. Charlotte’s 71 Energy Star buildings earned the 21st spot on the list, coming between Portland, Oregon, with 74 Energy Star buildings, and Honolulu, Hawaii, with 69. Charlotte’s Energy Star buildings cover a combined 13 million square feet and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by the equivalent of the annual use of 8,500 homes. The buildings also represent significant energy savings, with an estimate $10 million saved each year.

Throughout the country, Energy Star buildings typically use 35 percent less energy when compared to standard buildings and contribute 35 percent fewer carbon dioxide emissions.