The LEED Existing Buildings rating system addresses building operations and maintenance as well as systems upgrades in existing buildings. CREW says several systems now exist to enhance sustainability in commercial buildings: photovoltaic panels, which generate electricity from the sun's energy; daylighting, the controlled admission of natural light into a building through windows, skylights, atria and other components of the building envelope; and underfloor air distribution systems, an innovative approach to heating, ventilating and air conditioning that offers many economic and environmental benefits. Water consumption inside commercial buildings can also be reduced using a variety of innovative strategies that are integrated into the plumbing and mechanical systems.

The presenters will be Elaine Aye and Kim Hughes. Aye is a LEED-accredited professional and an environmental design consultant for Green Building Services and PGE's Earth Advantage program. Hughes a manager at PGE Efficiency Services for commercial and industrial markets, where she is responsible for developing and meeting objectives for the Operations, Sales and Green Building Services teams.

The luncheon will be held at the Governor Hotel in Downtown Portland. For registration information please contact Pat Fuller at 503.768.4294 or [email protected].