Public buildings achieve LEED certification with geothermal energy
Increasingly, counties are realizing the advantages of geothermal energy and making it a point to ensure that their public facilities meet the requirements for LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certification. This program, sponsored by the U.S. Green Building Council, involves a third-party assessment of buildings to determine whether the facility satisfies prerequisites related to energy efficiency, indoor air quality, materials selection, sustainable site development, water savings, and environmental and human health. Points are accrued to reach different levels of certification, which then translates to various benefits.
LEED rating systems are available for existing buildings, renovated structures and new construction projects as well. Achieving these certifications requires some investment and work on the part of engineers, interior designers, construction managers and architects, but the efforts can be well worth it. A LEED-certified building is able to realize lower operating costs and a safer environment for occupants. They also qualify for tax rebates and money-saving zoning allowances, all while conserving valuable natural resources.
Green focus pays off
The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab in Kansas is placing an emphasis clean energy, and the focus has been well worth it. KSHB News reported that the facility was recently granted LEED Platinum certification due to its green design.
“Not many labs in the country can say they have this distinction,” said Crime Lab Director Gary Howell, as quoted by the source. “We’re one of the few that can.”
So how did the crime lab achieve Platinum certification? The building is designed to maximize sunlight through the windows and skylights. For additional light, there are solar panels on the roof, and sensors embedded in the electrical lights can automatically switch lights on or off to avoid wasting energy. Not only that, but a geothermal heating system was also implemented when the building was constructed. This energy-efficient system ensures that the lab’s air maintains a consistently comfortable temperature. One of the most innovative features of the ventilation system is its capability to capture and recycle heat in the air.
“We spend a lot of effort making sure that we’re protecting the integrity of evidence and the protection of our scientists,” Howell told KSHB. “And we’ve done it, very economical.”
The effort has certainly paid off. Not only did the crime lab get Platinum LEED certification, but the facility now saves an average of $150,000 a month due to these energy-efficient upgrades.
Rewarding renovations
Another facility that has been reaping the benefits of geothermal energy is the Margaret Chase Smith Federal Building in Bangor, Maine. The Bangor Daily News reported that a $57 million renovation to the 47-year-old building has finally been completed. This 4-year project was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The renovations included a multitude of green updates, such as solar panels, energy-efficient lighting and a geothermal heating and cooling system. The result? The building has earned LEED and Energy Star certifications. Most notably, the news outlet noted that the facility is expected to lower its energy consumption by 68 percent due to these changes.
According to the source, U.S. District Judge John Woodcock admitted that the building had been “frozen in time” since its construction. Now, though, he is optimistic that the facility has a “new lease on life” due to the green features.
Tags: Solar energy, Water Heating