Effect of Green Roofs On Building Energy Cost

Abstract

With the energy cost rising 11.7% seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR), companies and people are concerned about their energy cost and consumption. Many companies seek to be environmentally friendly and are very conscious about their energy consumption and the related costs. One environmental friendly option is to explore different roofing materials such as white thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), solar panels, and green roofs, and their use as an alternative to reduce the consumption of energy in existing and new buildings. Our research project addresses the effects of roofing materials in reducing energy cost. A pilot green roof was installed on an existing building and the energy consumption of this building, before and after the installation of the green roof, was compared. Preliminary results show a reduction of energy cost by using green roofs.