Further details on illuminance are also provided for the different areas of the courtroom.
Table 1. Courtroom Illuminances
Courtroom Area
Horizontal Illuminance
Vertical Illuminance
Judge and clerk
50 fc
10 fc
Litigant's table and podium
50 fc
10 fc
Witness chair
30 fc
5 fc
Spectator area
10 fc
3 fc
2.1.4. Energy Policy Act of 2005
The most significant and immediate impact of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct) is
that new Federal buildings will soon be required to achieve energy savings of at least 30%,
(if cost-effective) below that required by ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004.
This savings has not been defined. The Department of Energy is required to issue a rule to
this effect by August 2006. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide input.
It is important to note that the 30% savings requirement does not indicate a linear reduction
of energy usage across the entire standard. The impact on lighting power density (LPD)
numbers may be greater or lesser than the impact on the building envelope or mechanical
systems, for example. If LPD's are reduced, it does not necessarily mean that the
courtroom LPD will be reduced by 30%; it may be more appropriate to reduce the power
allowance for other space types.
In addition to those mentioned above, there are a number of other relevant provisions.
Sustainable design principles be applied to the siting, design, and construction of all
new and replacement buildings. (Section 109)
When newer versions of the ASHRAE Standard 90.1 or IECC (ICC) Code have been
passed, EPAct 2005 encourages state and local government buildings to meet these
newer versions. (Section 125)
Technology use in Federal buildings is addressed by requiring the procurement of
Energy Star products, FEMP-designated products, and National Electrical
Manufacturers Associations (NEMA) Premium electric motors. (Section 104)
An overarching goal for reducing energy consumption on a gross square foot basis has
been set for existing Federal buildings. The requirement is that consumption be
decreased by two percent per year, reaching a 20 percent decrease by 2015 as compared
to a baseline established in 2003. (Section 102)
March 2006
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