San Diego ranked 17th in nation for energy-certified buildings

SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – The Environmental Protection Agency ranked San Diego 17th on a list of the 25 U.S. Cities with the most Energy Star-certified buildings.

“Cities across Southern California have saved more than $196 million and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 400,215 tons because of energy efficient buildings and upgrades,” according to Jared Blumenfeld, regional administrator for the EPA’s Pacific Southwest office. “Nationwide, these efforts are essential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the negative effects of climate change.”

Washington, D.C., was number one on the list with 480 Energy Star certified buildings, followed by Los Angeles with 475. San Diego had 92 Energy Star certified buildings.

Also making the list was Riverside which came in at number 14.

A building received Energy Star-certified if it is 75 percent more efficient than normal structures, and uses an average of 35 percent less energy and 35 percent fewer emissions.