'We must treat a building as a system'

In this comprehensive interview with William Harrison, president of ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers), the transformation of the USA's 'Green Building Standard' into a 'Net-Zero and Beyond' guideline is discussed. In particular, the lessons that the USA can learn in this respect from Europe - and vice-versa - are discussed. The questions covered include a review of the present situation in the USA with respect to the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning business and the recession, government intervention and programs in this area as well as the production and use of 'high-end' products and services. Examples of the use of new technologies such as LED-lighting are discussed, as are energy refurbishment and labelling. The definition of the 'Net Zero' building is discussed and its influence on air-conditioning systems is noted.