Efficient Agricultural Buildings: An Overview

Efficiency-focused building designs reduce the use of materials and energy in building construction and operation. Planning for efficiency can help save money and improve building performance. This publication discusses several ways to improve the efficiency of agricultural buildings and provides further references for implementing those strategies. Topics covered include suiting a building to its site, using natural systems, using renewable energy, conserving energy, and conserving material resources in construction. Efficient buildings can save money and improve comfort while reducing resource consumption. Designers and builders nationwide are creating new buildings that save energy and water, use fewer material resources, and create less waste. Through the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating system (1), the federal Energy Star® certification (2), and green building programs in states and communities, the building industry is developing standards that help measure and compare building efficiency. Several awards programs recognize green buildings, and professional organizations provide training for designing and constructing more efficient buildings (3). From architects to contractors to owners, more people are recognizing the benefits of efficient building and implementing efficiency strategies in their building projects. You don’t have to participate in any special program to practice and enjoy the benefits of efficient building. Farmers and ranchers can join in the savings by incorporating efficiency in their plans for new buildings or renovations. Whether you are planning housing, barns, equipment sheds, greenhouses, storage spaces, or even specialized facilities for agritourism or product processing, efficiency is an important consideration. Introduction