Savings from Energy Conservation Achieved

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, October 12, 2011

County Headquarters Building Earns Energy Star Designation

The Charles D. Cameron Public Services Building, hub for the Washington County government and many county services, recently earned a superior ranking for energy performance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The federal Energy Star program recognized Washington County for using less energy and fewer greenhouse gas emissions in its headquarters building than similar buildings nationwide. County officials estimate that recent efficiency measures at the county building have resulted in thousands of dollars of energy savings over the last three years. Actions taken at the Public Services Building and several others include: 

• converting heating and air conditioning controls to digital systems, 
• installing high-efficiency lighting and 
• reducing day-to-day energy usage among employees.

"The County is committed to demonstrating sustainable environmental stewardship that yields savings," said Assistant County Administrator Don Bohn. "We're proud of earning the Energy Star certification for the Public Services Building. The award is an acknowledgement of our work throughout our facilities to reduce operating costs, to provide a healthier work environment for our employees and visitors and to reduce our carbon footprint."

The 141,520-square-foot, three-story Public Services Building currently houses staff for three County departments, County Administrative Office, County Auditor's Office, County Counsel's Office, OSU Extension Service and the offices of the Board of County Commissioners. Washington County voters authorized bond funding for the building in 1987 and construction concluded in 1990. The building was named in honor of Charles D. Cameron, county administrator from 1986 to 2006.

Buildings that earn the Energy Star must perform in the top 25 percent of buildings nationwide compared to similar buildings. This level of performance must be independently verified by a licensed professional engineer or registered architect each year. Fourteen types of commercial buildings can earn the Energy Star, including office buildings, K-12 schools, and retail stores.

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