Buildings account for 36 percent of total energy use and 65 percent of electricity consumption in the United States. In California, total energy use has remained level despite population growth. In 2014, new regulation and changes in utility rates will continue to encourage energy efficiency and conservation. AB1103 requires all nonresidential building owners and operators to benchmark a building's energy use in advance of the sale, lease, financing or refinancing of the entire building. Benchmarking can be done through Energy Star.

Building owners and operators can use this fact sheet to learn more about the requirements. Also changing in 2014 will be SCE electricity rates for small and medium business as they transition to Time-Of-Use rates. Unlike one flat rate, there are now different rates depending on the season and the time of day the energy is used. When you use energy is just as important as how much you use! For a free consultation to save energy, contact Sustainable Works.

January 29, Wednesday

Vegan Chef Christine Oppenheim will teach you an animal, soy and gluten free way to shop.

March 29, Saturday

Forks over Knives chef and author Darshana will guide you through a delicious vegan adventure.

Reserve your spot at thegourmandiseschool.com.

The Aquarium's Micro Biologists classes are a fun way to introduce your 3-to-5 year olds to environmental education and marine science through engaging games, stories, art and hands-on science activities.

Held at Heal the Bay's Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, these fun sessions allow you to drop your child off for two hours of education with our teaching staff. Micro Biologists classes are offered twice a day on select Mondays. You can register your child for an individual class, or for a series of classes.

Free California FriendlyŽ Landscape Training for Residents

Sew a Vintage Paperboy Bag with Sewcranky

Tuesday, January 14, 6 - 9 PM

Satellite Flexible Workspace, 3110 Main Street, Santa Monica

Complimentary raw, organic and vegan food, wine and drinks will be provided.

The tax-deductible door charge on the day of the event is $15, or only $10 when you contribute in advance using PayPal no later than 2pm on the day of the event.