Kiosk

A kiosk display is a means by which real-time dynamic data on building performance can be conveyed to the public (see Dashboard).

Kit housing

These homes arrive on site in bundles of pre-cut parts and materials. They are assembled and finished completely on-site.

kW

Kilowatt: a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts. It is usually used as a measure of electrical power. On a hot summer afternoon a home with central air conditioning and other equipment in use might have a demand of 4 kW each hour.

kWh

Kilowatt-hour: a measure of energy equal to the amount of power multiplied by the amount of time the power is used. It is most often used to describe amounts of electrical energy. A 100-watt light bulb burning for 10 hours uses one kilowatt-hour of power (see Energy).

Kyoto Protocol

The objective of the protocol is the "stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system." As of June 2007, 175 Parties have ratified the Protocol to date. Of these, 36 countries and the EEC are required to reduce greenhouse gas emissions below levels specified for each of them in the treaty. (representing over 61.6% of emissions from Annex I countries). Notable exceptions include the United States and Australia. One hundred thirty seven countries have ratified the protocol, but have no obligation beyond monitoring and reporting emissions. As of August 31, 2007, 663 US cities in 50 states, representing more than 72 million Americans support Kyoto after Mayor Greg Nickels of Seattle started a nationwide effort to get cities to agree to the protocol.