Area Development
Johnson Controls released its Energy Efficiency Indicator survey today, showing that American executives and managers are seeking to invest in green energy technologies for their businesses. A total of 1,435 decision-makers were surveyed between Feb. 23 and March 15.

The report found that 52 percent of those surveyed plan to make capital investments in energy efficiency, and 60 percent plan to make operating budget expenditures in efficiency programs over the next 12 months. But 38 percent said cost was the biggest barrier in implementing green practices.

"Our research shows attention to energy efficiency is continuing its growth among business leaders," said Dave Myers, president of Johnson Controls Building Efficiency businesses. "Commercial buildings consume 18 percent of the energy and 35 percent of electricity used in the U.S. each year. A focus on improving energy efficiency in existing buildings is the best way to address carbon reduction goals being set by a growing number of organizations."

This year, 65 percent of business leaders said they were paying more attention to efficiency than last year. Eighty-four percent said efficiency is a priority for new construction and retrofit projects this year.

Cost savings was the leading reason for adapting green practices, with 97 percent of respondents giving it the top slot. The next most important factors were public image (63 percent), government and utility incentives (62 percent), and reducing greenhouse gas emissions (62 percent).

This is Johnson Controls' fourth annual Energy Efficiency Indicator survey. The company delivers products, services, and solutions that increase energy efficiency in buildings.