Energy Conservation
Tree canopies reduces energy consumption in buildings by providing shade during summer months
Energy Conservation Benefits
Tree canopy reduces energy consumption in buildings by providing shade during summer months, reducing energy demand for cooling that building. Trees also shade impervious surfaces such as asphalt and concrete, reducing radiant heat onto buildings (a term called urban heat island) which again reduces energy demand for buildings during summer months.
In the Treasure Valley, "West is Best" for tree planting adjacent to residential buildings. Trees located to the west shade homes from the hot summer sun.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a large tree on the west side of a home can reduce energy used for cooling by 15 percent or more.
