Target and Walmart Join Forces to Develop Energy Efficient Commercial Air Conditioners

Energy Secretary Steven Chu has announced that the Department of Energy is joining with the private sector to support market-based efforts to develop and deploy next-generation high-efficiency air conditioners for commercial buildings.

As part of a voluntary program, the Department worked with members of the DOE Commercial Building Energy Alliances, including Target and Walmart, to develop new performance criteria for 10-ton capacity commercial air conditioners, also known as rooftop units (RTUs). When built according to the requirements of the new specifications, these high-efficiency rooftop units are expected to reduce energy use by as much as 50-60 percent over the current equipment. Commercial buildings account for 18 percent of U.S. energy use and include significant opportunities for energy and financial savings that can help American companies be more competitive on a global scale.

“One of the most cost-effective ways for businesses to save money and improve their economic competitiveness is to reduce the energy needed to power their commercial buildings and facilities,” said Secretary Chu. “The public-private efforts announced today are leveraging America’s leadership in innovation to advance clean energy, support U.S. manufacturers and help a broad cross section of businesses become more competitive.”

Source: Solar Thermal Magazine