An Environmental Analysis of Proposed Efficiency Improvements for the Edwin L. Jones Cancer Research Building

Abstract

In the fall of 2009 Duke University initiated an energy audit of the Edwin L. Jones Cancer Research Building. The audit recommended a series of potential efficiency improvements, using energy cost reductions as the primary decision criteria. This project investigates the potential impact of proposed improvements on Duke’s climate neutrality goals by quantifying the associated greenhouse gas reductions. The project also evaluates mechanisms for pricing these benefits and prioritizing other campus facilities for future audits. Project results indicate that implementing the proposed Jones Building improvements could reduce total non-transportation campus emissions by approximately 1% and that similar improvements to all campus research facilities could reduce emissions by more than 10%.