Reducing Mechanical Equipment Cost: The Economics of Green Design

• Sustainable design does not always have a price premium.
• Design efficiencies can reduce the capital and operating costs of mechanical equipment.

Many architects and engineers are finding better ways of achieving energy efficient designs at or below conventional building cost. Two case studies of green buildings are discussed with a particular focus on capital cost issues. In the first case study, the extensive use of salvaged building materials and equipment results in a building with low environmental impact. The second case study is used to demonstrate a variety of design techniques which increased the thermal and lighting efficiency of the building, thereby reducing the capital and operating costs of mechanical equipment. The authors conclude that clients are demanding more efficient designs and generally recognize the economic value of sustainable buildings.

Hydes, K.R., & Creech, L. (2000). Reducing Mechanical Equipment Cost: The Economics of Green Design. Building Research & Information, 28(5-6): 403-407.