Four North Shore hotels get top EPA energy rating

REVERE – Four North Shore hotels are among the federal Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) top-rated buildings for energy efficiency.The EPA recognized 175 buildings in New England as high-performance when measured for energy use.The list included the Comfort Inn & Suites, 85 American Legion Highway; the Peabody Marriott Hotel, 8a Centennial Drive in Peabody; the Peabody SpringHill Suites, 43 Newbury St., and the Marriott Danvers, 238 Andover St. in Danvers.These award-winning buildings represent over 38 million square feet, save an estimated $52 million annually in reduced energy bills, and prevent over 400 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, equal to the annual emissions of approximately 1 million vehicles, according to the EPA.”Across New England, businesses and organizations are stepping forward to brighten our nation’s future by making smart decisions that are good for the environment and good for the bottom line,” said Robert Varney, regional administrator for EPA’s New England office. These facilities have shown innovation, good management and a commitment to leading the way with a new generation of environmentally-preferable building management practices.”America’s desire for environmentally friendly buildings is growing, and superior energy efficiency – identified by the ENERGY STAR – is a critical element of green building, Varney said.The structures on the list included private and government office buildings, hotels, K-12 schools, college dormitories and town halls.