The Virginia Beach Visitor Information Center is an important resource to about 50,000 tourists every year. Following an energy audit, this frequented building recently got some eco-upgrades that have already had noticeable effects. Some of the upgrades include new heating and air-conditioning systems, more efficient lighting and added technology to prevent water heating and energy use while the building is empty. Projected reductions in energy use total 37 percent from the pre-renovated building levels.

 

This welcome change is in addition to the Visitor Information Center's "Virginia Green" certification based on recycling efforts and low-flow water equipment. These efforts are all part of a larger effort by the city to make Virginia Beach an eco-friendly destination.

 

These efficiencies will also prove their worth as energy prices rise. The new renovations are expected to save Virginia Beach about $5,000 per year. This story is part of a much larger story in Virginia Beach, where the Joint Energy Committee is committed to a 10 percent reduction of electric usage by city buildings within five years. While the United States still lacks a national energy plan, cities and states can take these sorts of measures to get ahead of tomorrow's energy challenges.