Federal government agencies embrace cool roof retrofits

Federal government agencies are aggressively replacing standard roofs with cool roofs that reflect rather than absorb sunlight. Two years ago, Energy Secretary Steven Chu mandated that government buildings install cool roofs whenever it was cost effective. Since then, several agencies have done so.
Sept. 25, 2012

Federal government agencies are aggressively replacing standard roofs with cool roofs that reflect rather than absorb sunlight. Two years ago, Energy Secretary Steven Chu mandated that government buildings install cool roofs whenever it was cost effective. Since then, several agencies have done so.

The National Nuclear Security Administration, for example, now has about 2.5 million sf of cool roofs that are projected to save up to $10 million in energy costs over the next 15 years. In total, about 160 cool roofs have been installed by the Department of Energy. As roofs come up for repair or new buildings are constructed, the Energy Department will typically opt for a cool roof.

(http://www.federalnewsradio.com/493/3036977/Cool-Roofs-Initiative-helps-agencies-achieve-energy-saving-goals)

About the Author

Drew Ballensky

Drew Ballensky is general manager of Duro-Last Roofing, Inc.’s central U.S. facility in Iowa and company spokesman for Duro-Last’s cool roofing, sustainability and architectural education programs. He is past-president of the Chemical Fabrics and Film Association and chairman of CFFA’s Vinyl Roofing Division. Drew earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial technology from the University of Northern Iowa and master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University. Drew has over 29 years experience in business and industry in various engineering and managerial capacities. He has worked in the U.S. and Canadian operations for a major international manufacturer of pre-engineered steel buildings, was a financial analyst with a major athletic apparel manufacturer and was an owner of a general contracting company.
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