The Environmental Protection Agency released its second annual list of U.S. cities with the most energy-efficient buildings. Phoenix ranked number 20, just ahead of Ogden, Utah, and Charlotte, North Carolina.
The EPA's list is determined by the number of energy-efficient buildings in each city. Phoenix has 52 buildings with "Energy Star" ratings from the EPA. An "Energy Star" is awarded to a building that performs in the top 25 percent of energy efficiency nationwide, compared to similar buildings.
Phoenix's Energy Star buildings include The Anasazi Plaza on North Tatum Boulevard, the APS offices downtown, the Biltmore Commerce Center, the Collier Center, and Chaparral and Ironwood Elementary schools.
According to the EPA, these buildings create savings of $11.4 million and electricity savings equal to the energy use of 9,900 homes.
Phoenix moved up two spots since the EPA's 2009 list, from 22nd to 20th.
Phoenix moved up two spots since the EPA's 2009 list, from 22nd to 20th.
The 2010 list includes some surprises: Detroit is number 15, and Los Angeles is number one. Filling out the top five are Washington, DC; San Francisco; Denver; and Chicago.
"These cities and Energy Star buildings are shining examples of leadership in the fight against global warming," said EPA Regional Administrator Jared Blumenfeld. "We applaud these facilities for making significant contributions to reduce their footprint through energy conservation in the workplace."
