In 2011, GSA’s Chicago Federal Center joined the green challenge with 6,700 workers. 1 year later, an HVAC overhaul cut natural gas use 25% and saved $140,000 that year

The Chicago Federal Center did not need a new building to make a major dent in energy use. GSA instead looked closely at the systems already heating and ventilating the federal complex. The approach produced a notable result within a year. Natural gas use dropped 25% compared with the previous year, while the agency saved about $140,000.

The project involved more than replacing old mechanical equipment. GSA upgraded major parts of the building’s HVAC system and installed two new building automation systems. Facility engineers also changed when the building’s boilers operated during winter weather. Together, those changes turned routine building management into an important source of energy savings.