L.A. tops list for energy efficient buildings

LOS ANGELES Energy Star buildings use an average of 35 percent less energy than typical buildings. They also release 35 percent less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

There are 293 Energy Star labeled buildings in the greater Los Angeles area. The owners and operators of those buildings have prevented greenhouse gas emissions equal to the electricity use from 34,818 households a year, according to the Mayor's office.

"In this economic climate, we must work to end our dependence on fossil fuels and invest in our green economy through renewable energy, energy efficiency and conservation programs," said Mayor Villaraigosa.

The EPA's Energy Star energy performance scale helps organizations assess how efficiently their buildings use energy relative to similar buildings nationwide. A building that scores 75 or higher on the EPA's 1-100 scale is eligible for Energy Star.