Going green hasn't always been economically friendly. The initial cost of developing a more energy efficient building can be 10 percent higher than using standard equipment. But with the recent rise in energy costs that gap is starting to close.
The new "green" economics of sustainable building is proving that in the long run, using more energy efficient equipment benefits the bottom line. From an architectural firm in New York's Battery Park, to a car dealership in Michigan, energy-saving technologies are being used to improve the nation's landscape.
Traditionally a decidedly un-green environment, car dealerships come with challenges like large showroom windows, giant electric signs and emissions from repair shops. But with sustainable practices like skylights to cut electricity costs, geothermal energy to heat and cool the building and rainwater for the car wash, these companies are making a green commitment while decreasing energy costs.
