Creating the Next Generation of Energy Efficient Technology
The Building Technologies Program (BTP) invests in technology research and development (R&D) activities that can dramatically reduce energy consumption and energy waste in commercial and residential buildings. Buildings in the United States use nearly 40 quadrillion British thermal units (Btu) of energy for space heating and cooling, lighting, and appliances, an amount equivalent to the annual amount of electricity delivered by more than 3,800 500-megawatt coal-fired power plants. Our technology portfolio aims to help reduce building energy requirements by 50% through the use of improved appliances; windows, walls, and roofs; space heating and cooling; lighting; and whole building design strategies.
Key Research and Development Areas
Our current research and development focus includes:
- Better appliances to reduce plug loads
- Advanced water heaters
- Improved refrigeration
- Cost-effective and highly efficient window systems for all types of buildings
- New thermal insulation and building materials
- Next-generation attic and roof systems
- Higher efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and heat pump systems
- Innovative working fluids that sustain or improve performance of heating and cooling equipment
- Strategies to improve indoor air quality without sacrificing energy efficiency
- Enhanced lighting that performs as well as today's lighting—while using less energy, lasting longer, producing high quality light, and reducing energy costs.
Read more about BTP's energy efficient technology successes and learn about opportunities to work with BTP.