State Energy Efficient Design Program

Oregon's State Energy Efficient Design Program (SEED) was originally established in 1991. This program, codified in state law, directs state agencies to work with the Oregon Department of Energy to ensure cost-effective energy conservation measures are included in new construction projects and major renovations to public buildings. Leased buildings are also required to be more energy efficient. State agencies may use a prequalified Energy Analyst approved by the Department of Energy to perform energy consumption analyses. 

The law was revised in 2001 to require that all state facilities constructed on or after June 30, 2001 exceed the energy conservation provisions of the Oregon State Building Code by at least 20%. 

By 2015, existing buildings must reduce energy use by 20% compared to the building's baseline energy use in 2000. Energy conservation and efficiency projects in existing buildings can be funded through energy savings performance contracts. Complete SEED guidelines are available on the web site listed above.