VA Handbook 0055
July 28, 2003
e. Source Energy. VA shall strive to reduce total energy use and associated greenhouse
gas and other air emissions, as measured at the source. VA shall undertake life-cycle cost-
effective projects in which source energy decreases, even if site energy use increases.
f. Water Conservation. Using life-cycle cost-effective measures, VA shall reduce water
consumption and associated energy use in its facilities. Water cost savings and associated
energy cost savings shall be included in energy assessments. Additionally, VA will meet the
goals set forth by the Federal Energy Management Program regarding the completion
schedule of water management plans. The schedule is as follows:
(1) 5% of facilities by 2002;
(2) 15% of facilities by 2004;
(3) 30% of facilities by 2006;
(4) 50% of facilities by 2008; and
(5) 80% of facilities by 2010.
g. VA will emphasize research and development of energy conservation in the
construction and building design of all VA facilities.
h. All administrations and staff offices must incorporate the use of Energy Star and other
energy-efficient equipment within their facilities.
2. COMMODITY ACQUISITION. As part of a general strategy to reduce energy consumption
and reduce cost, administrations and staff offices will engage contractors to conduct
commodity acquisition assessments (CAA). The CAA will evaluate current rate structures to
ensure that cost savings opportunities are being explored and develop short- and long-term
commodity acquisition plans, which will include findings, recommendations, and a strategic
implementation plan.
a. The contractor performing the CAA will evaluate all current commodity tariff structures
and make certain that cost savings opportunities are being explored and implemented at the
regional level (Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN), Memorial Service Network (MSN),
or Area Office). The CAA is the first phase of the energy assessment, which is discussed in
the Energy Investment section of this handbook.
b. A CAA must include the following on a regional basis:
(1) Verification of correct tariff rates;
(2) Verification of current energy baseline;
(3) Report on current commodity acquisition plans;
(4) Short- and long-term commodity acquisition plans; and
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