Last fall, Houston Mayor Bill White formed a green building advisory committee to help him lead Houstonians to save energy and construct healthier buildings that lessen the impact on the environment. The committee consists of Houstonians that have already shown leadership in energy saving technologies, most of whom own “green” buildings, specifically buildings that have been certified by the U.S. Green Building Council to meet the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system.

The Mayor has requested his committee to avail their buildings for public tours to give their fellow Houstonians an opportunity to walk through them and learn about their higher performing strategies. In the United States alone, buildings account* for:
• 65% of electricity consumption
• 36% of energy use
• 30% of greenhouse gas emissions,
• 30% of raw materials use
• 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually)
• 12% of potable water consumption

The offices for Horizon Wind Energy, originally completed in 2006, are housed in the historic Esperson office building which was built in 1927. The offices have been certified to the Silver level of LEED for Commercial Interiors to serve a capacity of 225 people. Recently, the Esperson Building recieved an Energy Star Rating, showcasing its superior energy efficiency ranked in the top quartile of similar buildings.
During renovations, existing marble flooring was refinished and reused, as well as refurbished for other uses including the reception desk. Salvaged and refurbished furniture equaled 74% of the total furnishings value. Construction activities incorporated low emitting paints, sealants, adhesives and Green Label Plus certified carpets were installed. Additonally, 69% of the construction debris was diverted from the landfill, indoor air quality management techniques we employed, and building commissioning utilized.

Access to daylight and direct exterior views for 98% of the space, using reduced lighting power density by 31% and daylight responsive lighting controls, and utilizing Energy Star appliances help acheive substantial Energy savings. Water savings are encouraged through the use of low flow water fixtures and dual flush valves on water closets, reducing water use by 42%.

Horizon Wind Energy purchases 100% green power, not surprisingly. During construction, 67% of building materials were manufactured regionally, lowering transportation cost and fuel use. The building location utilizes existing infrastructure and is close to light rail and other public transportation. Horizon Wind Energy employees are encouraged to carpool, bike, and utilize mass transit, by providing bike storage and showers, and half the normal parking spaces.
*statistics: U.S. Green Building Council