WESTPORT, Conn. - According to an online survey recently conducted by the International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition (AHR Expo), HVACR professionals are most interested in learning more about improving energy efficiency, building automation, and green building technology. More than 800 responses from around the world were received and analyzed from 2006 show attendees to gauge the pulse of the industry and to help plan 2007 show offerings.

The topics that the survey respondents reported as most important to address at the 2007 show include the following in order of interest:

  • Energy efficiency, energy savings, and energy recovery

  • Building controls, automation and integration

  • Green building issues and green technology

  • Indoor air quality

  • Solar and other alternative energy sources such as geothermal and wood-burning

    "Given the high cost of fuel and the ongoing desire for more healthy living environments, there is a critical need to learn more about the products, technologies, and trends that can help achieve greater energy efficiency," said Clay Stevens, president of International Exposition Co., producer and manager of the show. "These surveys help us plan ways to better meet our exhibitor and attendees' needs."

    In response to industry feedback, AHR Expo has introduced several new show features and enhancements over the years ranging from specially-focused educational sessions to dedicated pavilions. Some special features planned for the 2007 event include:

  • A variety of association-sponsored educational sessions focusing on energy efficiency and building automation topics will be offered in addition to the ASHRAE conference program and short courses. The 2007 sessions topics will be announced later this year.

  • A special focus on green buildings featuring "green" exhibitors and new conference sessions by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

  • The New Product Technology Theater where leading companies will present brief previews of their latest technologies and products, including many dealing with energy efficiency, building automation, and green buildings.

  • An expanded Building Automation & Control Showcase area on the show floor featuring the latest building automation products and technologies.

  • The AHR Expo Innovation Awards competition will showcase the most innovative new products at the show including those focused on building automation, indoor air quality, and green building.

    According to the 2006 AHR Expo Visitor Survey, 99 percent of visitors attended the show because they felt finding new products was "important." Ninety-one percent of visitors reported they found products or information at the show that they could use to improve their business. More than 40 percent spent more than two days at the show to find out about new products and attend educational sessions.

    "AHR Expo is the only event in the world where HVACR professionals can see such a wide selection of new products and technologies and choose from so many educational opportunities," Stevens said.

    According to Stevens, more than 1,300 companies have already reserved over 300,000 net square feet of space for the 2007 event with six months still remaining until the show. The 2007 show will run January 29-31 at the Dallas Convention Center.

    For more information, visit www.ahrexpo.com.

    Publication date: 05/29/2006