December, 2011
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments 2012 2011Edition Edition
Cover photos page 8 ground breaking p11 The new high-tech LEED certified police station
Geothermal Think Tank Takes on an extraordinary job...pg 13
p13 “Chag” Chagnon records well manifold temperatures and pressures of geothemal tanks p17 The greenhouses are comprised of an open, flexible environment for plant growth and experimentation. p ? Exterior view of North Branch facility
North Branch Construction’s facility has earned the US EPA’s prestigious Energy Star...pg 7
Photo YWCA of Western Mass. by Woodruff/Brown
Dietz & Co. Architects honored for Super 60 Award for Growth...pg 4
C.E. Floyd Company, Bechtel Frank Erickson Architects, and Benchmark Senior Living celebrate their 17th project working as a team...pg 8
Inside this Issue
December 2011
Inside this Issue: AIA Approves IES Seminar JWU Achieves Leed Gold Interview with Rainer Muhlbauer Clean Energy Job Growth in Mass. JM Coull Completes F.W. Webb Building Timberline Encourages Green Gaylord Gets First Solar Water System JWU Achieves Leed Gold Cannon Holds Mini Trade Show MGM at Yale by Michael Yurish Sterling’s Green Operating Policy by Nancy Broner Solar Heating Can Pay for Itself by Chris Beebe Window Film: The First-Step Energy Conservation Measure by Peter J. Davey Make that Wasted Roof Space a Profit Center by Daniel Cook Working Together Acoustics and Green Design by Jeffrey Fullerton A Renewable Energy Portfolio Requires Incentives by Doug Pope
Photo by Warren Jagger Photography
The UMass Amherst greenhouses are comprised of an open, flexible environment...pg 17
Plus sustainable facilities under construction and more...
Green Development News
The new high-tech LEED certified UMass Amherst police station...pg 11
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High-Profile: High-Profile: Annual Annual Green Green Facilities FacilitiesDevelopments Developments
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Message from the Associate Publisher by Anastasia Barnes When it came time to sit down to write this article, I realized that I knew exactly what I wanted to say. I’m always a little overwhelmed when I think that I’ve been working for the family business for over a decade. When I first came on board I hadn’t a clue of what the A/E/C industry was (or even what it stood for). I, of course, have learned a great deal about the Anastasia Barnes business from my father (the publisher) and grandparents (the editors), but I’ve also been lucky to learn through my colleagues and clients over the years. When I first heard the terms “green” and “sustainable” in our industry I became immediately intrigued. I knew that if there was any part of the industry I would be eager to learn more about, it was this. Now, I’ve always considered myself somewhat of an environmentalist. I use this term in the simplest way. I believe as an individual I am responsible for my actions and attitude towards our precious earth the environment we live in. I do this, as many of us do, by recycling as much as possible or conserving water and electricity. Call me a tree hugger, but it’s what I believe and the way I live. So how does this translate to the design-build industry? Well, as we have seen
with the rapid growth of the idea of green in our industry, there are many of us out there who care for the cities we live in, the schools we send our children to, and the offices we commute to every morning. Going green has proven to be a collective effort. From home owners to the decision makers of top universities and healthcare facilities, the idea of “taking care” has dramatically affected the design-build industry. I can’t tell you how many stories come to us on a daily basis that is green or sustainable related news, professionals becoming LEED certified, large firms incorporating green practices within their own offices, facilities being awarded Silver, Gold, even Platinum LEED...Designing and building sustainable has become part of the lexicon in our industry, and this is just the beginning. In 1993, the US Green Building Council, a nonprofit and private 501 (c) membership-based trade organization, was created to promote sustainability in how buildings are designed, built, and operated. At the end of February 2010, USGBC had more than 18,500 member organizations from every sector of the building industry, and this number continues to grow. According to a recent study, 35% of architects, engineers, and contractors (AEC) reported having green jobs today, representing 661,000 jobs and one-third of the industry work force. That share is expected to increase over the next three years, with 45% of all design and construction jobs being green by 2014! This is why
Dietz Wins Award for Growth
Photo Credit: Woodruff/Brown
LEED Gold Certified Phase II of the YWCA of Western Massachusetts Springfield, MA - Dietz & Company Architects, Inc. has been honored with a 2011 Super 60 Award for Growth by the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc. (ACCGS). This award is presented annually to the top businesses in the region that contribute to the strength of the regional economy in a significant way. One noteworthy regional accomplishment this year was the opening of LEED Gold-certified Phase 2 of the
YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide housing that will serve to transition women from domestic violence shelters to permanent housing. The firm is also working on The Caring Health Center, which provides community-controlled healthcare services including primary and preventive care, as well as many clinical services and health education. The center has experienced dramatic growth and now services over 22,000 individuals in the greater Springfield area.
we see such a demand for LEED certified and trained professionals. You may have also noticed Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology has been increasingly helpful, as well, since the process and incentives of BIM allow A/E/C professionals to design and build facilities that are greener and more energy efficient than ever.
In fact, according to an article published from www.thenextgreatgeneration. com, Boston is the the No. 1 city for clean technology venture capital, with plans to build a plant that turns fall leaves into fertilizer. So don’t burn those beautiful colored leaves just yet!
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Solar Heating Can Pay for Itself
by Chris Beebe Solar heating systems are designed to efficiently capture the sun’s radiation for use in domestic, process, pool, space, or boiler makeup water heating. Given an area with ample sunlight, a suitable energy load, and a structurally sound location, solar hot water can be a very effective way of providing free renewable energy to facility owners, deChris Beebe creasing their existing fuel costs by up to 80%. After factoring for grants, incentives, and tax credits, the financial savings can be substantial, and the system can often pay for itself within a few years while saving tens or hundreds of thousands of therms over its useful life of at least 25 years. With an industrial background, BEAM Engineering specializes in complex and technically challenging facilities such as industrial, hospital, and university heating systems. The start of any solar hot water design is to identify the coldest makeup water available that has a constant or regular flow rate. These factors will allow the solar heating system to operate efficiently and to provide the greatest rate of return for the owner. Though a well-established and intuitive technology, solar heating has not yet been adopted on a widespread scale due to complex design requirements and the integration of a number of professional trades (plumbing, roofing, and electrical) into each project. Fortunately, beginning in late 2010, these technical and market-related issues began to be addressed under the regulatory and policy leadership of the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), the quasi-public state renewable energy agency. After launching early in 2011, MassCEC’s Commonwealth Solar Hot Water pilot program has been a great success, with Massachusetts installing solar heating projects at a rate that is 40% higher than all of California combined, despite the fact that California has 30 million more people and is the Golden State. Additionally, under a grant managed by the Low-income Energy Affordability Network (LEAN), BEAM Engineering has provided the design support for the construction and implementation of over $3 million in commercial scale solar heating projects. These projects have effectively doubled the amount of commercially installed capacity in Massachusetts, quickly establishing the technology as a go-to choice for clean and reliable heat production. In order to drive towards the maturation of the solar heating industry, BEAM Engineering has sought to constantly improve system sizing and design methods,
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develop more consistent bid specifications, and quantify the actual energy savings associated with commercial-scale renewable heating systems. As system monitoring becomes more prevalent, it is believed that the “Hawthorne Effect” – a basic principle that people perform better when they know they are being watched or tested – will drive system designers towards more efficient and clever applications. Widely used technologies, such as glazed flat plate or evacuated tube collectors, can easily generate water up to 200°F. Emerging technologies such as concentrating collectors can track the sun as it moves across the sky, generating steam up to 100 PSIG. Additionally, solar heating panels are about four to five times as efficient as photovoltaic (PV) panels and are not nearly as susceptible to shading, which allows solar heating systems to be installed in locations that may not be suitable for a solar PV system. Solar heating systems can provide up to 80% of on-site thermal energy needs on an annual basis, and up to 100% of the demand in the summer months. Additionally, since the heat is generated onsite, it can continue to provide energy in the event of a utility service interruption, providing vital localized capacity. To help alleviate building owner concerns and reduce project surprises, we encourage a structural analysis and roof assessment, flow rate and load measurements, and very detailed energy modeling for all commercial-scale projects. In all cases this leads to a more efficient and cost-effective system. Additionally, Internet-based performance monitoring allows the facility staff or system owner to observe real-time operation via her or his computer or smartphone. Furthermore, for business owners who wish to communicate their commitment towards a clean environment, the performance monitoring system can even automatically post performance updates to Facebook or other social media sites. One major snack food company recently installed a very large solar water heating system at their main processing plant. Though the energy payback for this particular system was about eight years, once they began to market that their chips were “made from the sun”, sales increased 10-fold, and the multi-million dollar system was paid for within a few short months. For businesses, these external marketing and environmental benefits are very real and should be included in any complete financial assessment. Over the upcoming months, the MassCEC will continue to fund pre-engineering studies to determine if solar heating is a good fit for your building. Chris Beebe is CEO of BEAM Engineering, a Boston-based renewable energy consulting firm.
JM Coull Completes F.W. Webb Bldg. Architect Design Science International
Boston - A recent ribboncutting ceremony marked the completion of Boston’s first environmentally friendly warehouse by JM Coull, Inc., a design-build and construction management firm and a certified green building contractor. Jeff Pope, president of F.W. Webb Company and owner of the building, addressed the gathering, noting that his family’s company had been in Boston since 1866. He said the 307 Dorchester Ave. facility was Participating in the ribbon-cutting were (l-r) Boston “our fourth and finest location City Councilor Bill Linehan; Jeff Pope, president, F.W. in Boston.” Webb Company; Tom Blades, general manager, F.W. The 47,700sf facility in- Webb Company; and Brian Golden, executive director/ corporates a hybrid solar/geosecretary, Boston Redevelopment Authority. thermal system used for heatnative-energy heating, ventilation, and air ing and cooling the building. Thirty roof-mounted thermal solar panels conditioning (HVAC) systems. One addiand a closed-loop geothermal system rep- tional evacuated tube thermal solar panel resent state-of-the-art technology in alter- provides domestic hot water, and a small photovoltaic system augments the electrical supply. The two-story Boston facility includes offices, a self-service supply store and warehouse/distribution center, and the first Frank Webb’s Bath Center product showroom in Boston. The design team for this project included Design Science International, architect, and Turner Building Science & The environmentally friendly warehouse inDesign, engineer. corporates a hybrid solar/geothermal system.
Contact Nexamp, New England’s leading turnkey solar installer, for a complimentary solar energy assessment of your new or existing facility. Let us help you reduce your energy costs: Nexamp makes solar energy simple and profitable for you. www.nexamp.com
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Make that Wasted Roof Space a Profit Center
by Daniel Cook Easthampton is an unlikely place for a wind turbine with relatively low wind speeds. 74% of the wind speeds range between 5 and 16 miles per hour (mph) in Easthampton, which is pretty typical for most urban environments. Traditional wind turbines require smooth air with little or no turbulence with winds at approximately 20 mph or more to operate at optimal efficiency. Urban Power USA has developed vertical axis wind turbines that maximize electrical output in the 6 – 16 mph range. Scientific American awarded Urban Power USA as a 2010 finalist in its “World Changing Ideas” contest for its innovative design. Urban Power USA manufactures 1.8 KW, 5KW, 10 KW
and 25 KW Wind Turbines in Massachusetts. 180 Pleasant St. in Easthampton is a three-story mill building built around 1900 that houses small manufacturing companies and offices on a lot of about 2.9 acres. The turbine has been operating for the last year after two years of data collection, and the electrical production is impressive. The 1.8 KW Urban Power Wind Turbine produces approximately 7,877 kWh of electricity per year or reduced the power requirements for this industrial building by approximately $1,260 annually. The process of getting approval for the wind turbine from the town of Easthampton was complicated by the town’s lack of experience with this technology. It required structural supports TYPICAL 5KW WIND ENERGY PROJECT under the roof to be installed Estimated kWh Produced 22,836 which added significant costs. This would not be Estimated Installed Cost $28,500.00 required in most other apEstimated State Incentives $1,000.00 plications as roof mounted structural supports can be Estimated Federal Incentives $8,550.00 installed on top of support(30%) Estimated Net Cost $18,950.00 ing columns to reduce installation costs. Estimated Annual Energy The owner of the 180 $3,653.76 Produced @ $0.16/kWh: Pleasant Street building has Renewable Energy Credits $456 been so invigorated by the (RECS) @ $0.02/kWh/yr Urban Power wind turbines Payback (yrs) 2.51 he is planning to add more wind turbines by installing a ROI 39.8% 5KW and a 10 KW wind turEstimated 10 Year Cash Flow $56,408.80 bine. He has also installed a elevator to the roof and plans
mounted high above a building. The design of the Urban Power vertical axis wind turbine also makes it look like HVAC equipment on the roof so there is less resistance from neighbors in the permitting process. In addition to free electricity from prevailing winds, the Urban Power Wind Turbines are bird and bat friendly since they rotate at much lower speeds than traditional horizontal axis wind turbines, so birds and bats can “see” the motion and avoid unfortunate accidents. The economics of the Urban Power USA vertical axis wind turbines is very attractive. There is currently a 30% federal The 1.8 KW Urban Power wind turbine tax credit resulting in a significant cost reFor ofaspace sitewith evaluation and pricing takes up a small amount duction. In addition there are state incenContact: Conservation Solutions Corporation its 10-foot diameter footprint and stands 978-266-1900 tives. Massachusetts provides a $1,000 dcook@conservationsolutions.com about 15 feet high with stand. incentive and other states also have even more generous incentives. There is also to open a restaurant with a view of spinning a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) that Urban Power Vertical Axis Wind Turbines ranges from around $0.01 – $0.035 per on one side and a view of Mount Tom and megawatt produced and documented with the Connecticut River on the other. a REC certificate. Finally there are grants The 5 KW Urban Power wind turbine from the state. is only slightly larger at 16 feet in diameter These system can be scaled up to and about 22 feet high with stand. The 5 larger 10, 25, 50 KW or 100 KW systems KW wind turbine produces approximately resulting in additional electrical produc22,836 kWhs or $3,653 in electricity per tion by adding more units or stacking them year. That is 2.9 times more electricity than on top of each other. These more efficient the 1.8 KW systems. The 5 KW wind turwind turbines operating at the wind speeds bine as a much larger surface area and can that are common in New England urban capture more wind to focus the power of areas. They are a great alternative to solar the wind through the turbine. PV systems since they take up much less The advantage of the vertical axis space. They also have an advantage over wind turbine is that it is not affected by turbulent wind flow so it doesn’t have to be Continued on next page
Make Your Roof a Profit Center with Urban Power Vertical Axis Wind Turbines
Make Your Roof a Profit Center with Urban Power Vertical Axis Wind Turbines For a site evaluation and pricing Contact:
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Conservation Solutions Corporation 978-266-1900 dcook@conservationsolutions.com
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Two Obtain DCEP Certificates
• ProBoston - Integrated ficiency in Design Group announced the use of the that Dennis Julian, PE, DOE’s DC Pro ATD, DCEP, and Jack software tool McCarthy, PE, DCEP ,are suite. Data Center Energy Prac• Ability titioner (DCEP) Program to address encertificate holders. They ergy opportuniare among fewer than 200 ties in electriprofessionals in the United Dennis Julian Jack McCarthy cal systems, air States to complete the promanagement, gram, which was developed by the Department of Energy, and qualifies HVAC, IT equipment and on-site generathem to perform energy assessments in data tion. • Ongoing training in conducting data centers. Throughout their training, Julian and center assessments. • Ability to pass an exam and be McCarthy worked closely with industry stakeholders to acquire the latest knowledge re-qualified every three years. “As leaders in green data center deand skills required to perform accurate assessments. As qualified Data Center Energy sign, it is essential that our staff have access Practitioners, they offer clients a unique set to the latest industry training and knowledge,” said Tony Asfour, principal of Inof skills, including: • Qualification to identify and evalu- tegrated Design Group. “The training that ate energy efficiency opportunities in data Dennis and Jack received will be shared with the rest of our team.” centers.
Clean Energy Job Growth in Mass.
Boston - The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) recently announced significant growth in the Massachusetts clean energy economy, which now employs more than 64,000 people, according to the 2011 Massachusetts Clean Energy Industry Report. The report identified 4,909 clean energy companies across the state that saw a 6.7% increase in jobs from July 2010 to July 2011, and expect employment growth rate of 15.2% from July 2011 to July 2012. According to a survey of these clean energy companies, 64,310 people are directly involved in work related to the state’s
clean energy sector, representing 1.5% of all jobs in the Commonwealth. The survey found a large number of firms in varied industries – ranging from construction and manufacturing to research and development – reporting activity and employment in the clean energy sector. Additionally, the report identified a large number of companies that don’t necessarily identify themselves as clean energy companies first, but directly engage in activities related to the clean energy cluster – showing that clean energy penetrates numerous sectors of the Massachusetts economy.
North Branch Earns EPA Energy Star
Exterior view of North Branch facility Concord, NH - North Branch Construction’s Silver Level USGBC LEED Certified corporate headquarters in Concord has earned the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) prestigious Energy Star for (commercial) Building and Plants for the second year in a row. The Energy Star is the national symbol for protecting the environment through superior energy efficiency. The North Branch facility is one of only 10 commercial office buildings in the state of New Hampshire to have earned the EPA’s Energy Star. According to the EPA’s Energy Star analysis, the building uses 32% less energy and generates 32% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than similar buildings across the nation. North Branch improved its energy performance by installing cost-effective, energy-efficient systems and managing
energy strategically across the entire organization. Energy efficiency was a leading factor in the design of the building’s HVAC and electrical systems, including sophisticated lighting control systems, which not only improve the company’s energy bill, but also the occupants’ overall well-being. Numerous indoor air quality and occupant comfort measures were introduced, including increased ventilation, improved thermal control, abundance of daylight, and views to the outdoors from most occupied spaces. North Branch also established an education program used to promote sustainability and energy efficiency ideas among the North Branch employees, clients, and business partners.
Wasted Roof Space a Profit Center Continued from previous page
the sometimes-difficult permitting issues associated with tall towers for larger wind turbines. The efficiency of the Urban Power wind turbines at lower wind speeds now give building and property owners more options for renewable energy electricity
production and a way to make money from what was once wasted unprofitable space – the roof. Daniel Cook is the president at Conservation Solutions Corporation in Acton, MA.
Numerous indoor air quality and occupant comfort measures were introduced.
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
C.E. Floyd Breaks Grnd. With Benchmark Bechtel Frank Erickson Architects
Bedford NH - C.E. Floyd Company and Bechtel Frank Erickson Architects are partnering with Benchmark Senior Living on the 17th project as a team. The new community will include 64 assisted living units, 20 memory care units, a commercial kitchen with a dining common, and a dementia garden. Careful attention will be paid to minimizing impact on the site, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. Existing site conditions required extensive ledge removal and retaining wall construction along the north elevation. The building will be a steel-framed structure to meet the institutional use requirements but is designed to reflect the historic local architectural aesthetic. The team is working to deliver one of the first new assisted living facilities to achieve LEED certification under the LEED for homes standard.
Joining in at the groundbreaking were (l-r) Stephanie Handelson, COO Benchmark; Gerry Frank, principal BFE; Jean-Paul Roberge, Benchmark resident;Tom Grape, CEO Benchmark; Russ Marcoux, Bedford town manager; Mike Waleryszak. senior director of development. Benchmark; and Chuck Floyd. president C.E. Floyd Company.
AIA Approves IES Seminar
Boston - Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES), a provider of integrated performance analysis software and consulting services for sustainable building design, announced that its Free IES facility architectural seminar – Conceptual Analysis of Building Design and Energy Use – has been approved by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for Continuing Education System (CES) credits. Seminar participants do not need prior experience in the IES Virtual Environment (VE) software, and those who are AIA members will receive 1.5 learning unit (LU) hours. Conceptual analysis is the process of identifying the driving factors and key impacts of a design. This can be done even before the shape of the building is defined, and provides indicative – not predictive – results in an effort to refine and analyze the design as it evolves. During the one day Architectural Seminar, attendees have the
Wight Gets First SPI Certification
Boston - Sustainable Performance Institute (SPI), which helps construction, design, and property management companies institutionalize sustainability practices, named Wight & Company as the first organization to successfully complete the SPI Green Building Certification program, a recognition of Wight’s capability to deliver consistent, high quality sustainability services. Rendering of new assisted living units
opportunity to learn more about industryleading building analysis software, including VE-Gaia and its integration with Google SketchUp and Autodesk Revit. “Using conceptual analysis, the goal is that architects and engineers will work together to share assumption and inputs and review results as an integrated team. The better the inputs and assumptions, the better the results will likely be,” said Dr. Don McLean, founder and CEO of IES. “Our Architectural Seminar Roadshow has been a great success so far, and with the addition of AIA CES credits, we are excited to continue bringing tools and training for sustainable design to architects and engineers.” At the end of the seminar, IES reports attendance to AIA to allow for attendees to receive credits and a certificate from AIA. For more information and to book IES Facility events, visit http://www.iesve.com/ software/faculty.
“Wight & Co. is intrinsically connected to the communities it serves,” explains Barbra Batshalom, executive director of SPI. “We are pleased to extend our support to the clients Wight collaborates with, in order to further increase positive and responsible environmental action.” Based out of Chicago, Wight & Company has designed more than 30 LEED-certified and -registered buildings.
Courtesy of Bechtel Frank Erickson Architects
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
A High-Profile interview with Rainer Muhlbauer, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, director of architecture at BL Companies. High-Profile: How does BL Companies stand out among other designers as far as sustainable design? Do you have a “stamp” on your projects? What is your approach when working with a client on designing green? Rainer Muhlbauer: BL Companies is unique in our outlook on sustainability in that it is a fit with our company culture. We transformed our compaRainer Muhlbauer ny to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in 2006 with the belief that our business philosophy as well as our design philosophy should be sustainable. We are consciously trying to infuse our culture with an understanding of the value found in viewing our business and the built environment as something that has great value and must be created for the long term. We are uniquely suited to execute on both counts because of our ESOP structure – as it relates to business – and our multi-discipline architecture, engineering, and environmental services – as it relates to design. With virtually all of the design services needed to execute a project available under one roof, our approach is an integrated or holistic one that includes all of the design disciplines from inception. Working “shoulder-to-shoulder” with one another facilitates a more constant exchange of ideas during project development.
A Commitment to Sustainable Design BL Companies has been committed to sustainable design for a long time, with numerous LEED accredited professionals on staff. Much of our work these days is designed to LEED standards or equivalent. We were just notified that the Mary M. Hooker Environmental Sciences Magnet School in Hartford, Conn. that we designed received LEED Platinum certification. This project is the first school in New England to have received such status. The theme of the school is Education in Energy Efficiency and Environmental Responsibility. Natural materials such as stone, reclaimed wood, and water were used in the lobby to surround students with nature and create an innovative and inviting learning environment. There is an outdoor nature center and trail system used for environmental instruction. The ecologically and environmentally inspired spaces include a greenhouse, a butterfly vivarium, an interactive science theater, and an aquatics laboratory. The entire school is used as a teaching tool, including mechanical and electrical spaces, where observation windows are provided for students to learn about the school’s systems. HiPro: Are there any trends you see happening in the industry as far as green or sustainable design? New software or products being used? BIM perhaps? RM: The availability of “green” products continues to grow, which makes the execution of sustainable design projects more viable. Virtually every element of a building from paints to sealants to glazing, etc. presents choices that specifically address sustainable design. On the other hand, this trend has caused such a focus on green products that some manufacturers have resorted to “green-
washing” in their marketing efforts; finding ways to make products appear green without actually being so. BIM is a data-rich modeling tool that also holds potential for sustainable design, especially when working in a design-build delivery method, or working with a construction manager during the design phase. BIM software allows for the capture of significant amounts of data (i.e., volumes, areas, etc.) associated with materials and assemblies that can expedite the documentation necessary for LEED certification, or simply useful to document the uniquely sustainable qualities of a design. HiPro: What are some common challenges you have faced when designing a building that must be energy efficient and up to USGBC codes? RM: The greatest challenges are not from the codes, but from clients. There are few clients who disagree with the importance of sustainable design, but their level of commitment is challenged once there is a price to pay to achieve it. For those that are long
term building owners, the life-cycle benefits typically sell the benefits of sustainable design, but for many clients, longevity is not a goal. Still, USGBC’s LEED certification offers a standard by which to measure the degree of sustainability of a built environment. Although many arguments can – and have – been made about the validity of various measures, it remains the benchmark most used and offers a relatively clear path for measurement. HiPro: Regarding USGBC codes, have they changed over the years? Become stricter? RM: LEED version 3.0 was released this year. With each new release come stricter standards in order to achieve the various levels of certification. In addition, professionals are now being asked to become accredited under various specialty categories rather than simply LEED in general. The building codes are following suit. Codes and standards such as the IECC, ASHRAE 90.1, and Energy Star continue to raise the required standards of performance.
Solar Panel Field Project to Begin
Westford, MA - Dagle Electric of Melrose, in joint venture with electrical contractor L.J. Mishel of Ipswich, will begin construction of the Cathartes Private Investments of Boston / Nexamp solar power plant on 22 acres of industrial land in Westford. The facility will be constructed in two phases and will utilize 7,000 solar panels on each of the site’s two 11-acre
parcels. The solar plant is expected to generate enough electricity to power more than 600 homes. It will be the largest privately owned solar power plant in Massachusetts. Cathartes is partnering with solar developer Nexamp in the development, construction, and operation of the facility.
CREATIVITY ▪ QUALITY ▪ EXPERTISE Connecticut | New York | Pennsylvania | Maryland www.blcompanies.com | 800.301.3077 An Employee-Owned Company
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December, 2011
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Timberline Encourages Green
JWU Achieves Leed Gold
Providence, RI – Vision 3 Architects announced that Grace Welcome Center at Johnson & Wales University (JWU) has been awarded LEED Gold Certification for new construction by the U.S. Green Building Council. For the nearly 4,000 students enrolled in JWU’s culinary and graduate programs at the Harborside Campus, Grace Welcome Center stands as a gateway to their careers, and also serves as the first stop and first impression for visitors arriving at the campus. The 7,700sf facility is the University’s second LEED Certified Building. Every design decision, ranging from building materials to fixtures and furniture selections, were chosen because of their unique environmentally friendly characteristics and reduced impact on the environment.
View of the entrance lobby, looking into the gallery
View of main entrance The Grace Welcome Center, situated on a former brownfield site, was designed to complement surrounding campus buildings. The one and a half clearstory lobby space provides visitors with an inviting and userfriendly setting, and expands to a gallery area that features displays of culinary artifacts from the University’s Museum. The building also functions as a conference center, providing the university with the ability to host various types of functions. The facility accommodates a large multi-use presentation room with state-of-the-art audio and video systems, administrative offices, and meeting space. The building façade consists mainly of large spans of glass strategically placed to offer visitors’ views of the campus, maximize daylight, and minimize the use of artificial lighting. An outdoor terrace and amphitheater with views of Narragansett Bay opens up from the main conference space and has become a sought-after location for special functions and receptions.
STATE-OF-THE-ART PERMANENT DESIGN RELOCATABLE MODULAR CLASSROOMS AVAILABLE SUMMER 2012 • 35,000 Square Feet • 30 Classrooms, Administration Area, Restrooms, Nurse’s Station • Temporary or Permanent • Sale or Lease The whole complex or 2-classroom sections can be delivered to your site for the 2012-13 school year. Plan Now!
Hannaford Supermarkets announced a commitment to greener standards.
Canton, MA - Timberline Construction Corp, based in Canton, has undertaken capital improvement renovation projects for several stores for the Maine-based Hannaford Supermarkets chain. Last year Timberline completed a $3.2 million 36,000sf foot ground-up project in Duanesburg, NY. The supermarket had been planned for LEED Silver certification; yet by identifying and understanding areas of opportunity the team exceeded initial goals. LEED Gold status was awarded; a result of combined efforts in design, procurement and execution. Recently, several of Timberline’s repeat clients announced a commitment to greener standards for new construction projects. Two of these clients, Hannaford Supermarkets and Starbucks, participated in USGBC retail pilot programs. To best ### support Timberline’s environmental goals and clients’ targets, a Green Team formed to implement organized systems for collaborating, coordinating, and recording sustainable construction efforts. Timberline has performed renovations for over 50 Starbucks locations throughout New England. In 2010, Starbucks began demonstrating a corporate commitment to green building for all new stores; using the LEED certification program as a benchmark. Each new store is
designed to be greener and echo the culture of its neighborhood. Timberline is currently overseeing a fit-out for LEED Certification in Natick, MA. The Green Team ensures that the construction process follows the project’s LEED checklist, which includes sourcing local materials and craftspeople to connect the design style and green initiatives. Timberline’s Telecom Division has extensive experience in complex tower construction; creating a value also applicable to solar and wind alternative energy projects. Most recently Timberline’s team completed the steel frame for the installation of a large mountainside Solar Panel System to power the new radio communications tower they are building for the State of Maine. The challenging site is at a high-elevation which makes the crew, equipment and materials dependent on helicopter transport. This project is exemplary of Timberline’s strong construction management practices and its competency in managing complicated sites, such as the site-logistics of Mount Blue at Fort Jacob. Committed to being a proactive partner and member of the global community, Timberline Construction continues to prepare and position for advances in sustainable construction practices.
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
High-Tech & Green Features for New Police Station Amherst, MA - A new 27,500sf, high-tech police station constructed by the UMASS Building Authority opened recently on the campus of UMass Amherst, bringing attention to the school’s renewed focus on campus safety. The state-of-the-art facility features a new dispatch center, a crime evidence lab, and an emergency operation center. The building received a 2011 Excellence in Construction Award by the Associated Builders and Contractors and will be the first LEED certified facility on the UMass Amherst campus. The new headquarters, which will allow for staff growth from 68 to 80 over the next 10 years, is equipped with enhanced day-to-day radio interoperability with police departments from surrounding areas as well as the Federal Emergency Agency,
The new high-tech LEED certified police station
(l-r) David McKenzie, executive director of the UMass Building Authority, and Johnny C. Whitehead, chief of the UMass police department.
the Mass Emergency Management Agency, and Mass State Police. For the first time, the UMA-PD has a crime evidence laboratory and an emergency operation center (EOC) for critical management of operations during a campus, regional, or national emergency and disasters. “This new center for public safety is a model for other schools,” said Henry Thomas III of the UMass Building Au-
thority and Board of Trustees. “It gives students, faculty, and members of the community peace of mind that any situation can be handled safely and securely.” Following benchmarks for green building design, the station uses 43% less energy than a standard building. At least 90% of the construction waste was diverted from landfills to recycling centers. At least 20% of all materials in the building are “recycled content mate-
rials.” At least 20% of all materials in the building are “regional materials” manufactured within 500 miles of site (thus reducing fuel required for transport). At least 50% of all wood products are FSC-certified (rapidly renewable resource). Paints, adhesives, and sealants are low-VOC products. Lighting and HVAC systems are controlled by occupancy sensors and air quality. The facility uses 40% less water than standard buildings of the same type.
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Sterling’s Green Operating Policy
by Nancy Broner A number of years ago, after listening to the concerns and ideas of our clients, sustainability experts and ourselves, we at Sterling Office Moving expanded our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint out from our office and warehouse and into the field by carefully designing and implementing Nancy Broner a “Green” policy. We had already been using plastic crates for about 15 years. All of our trucks now run on biodiesel fuel. All cardboard, plastic wrapping, metal (furniture, racking), packaging materials, etc. is brought back to our warehouse, prepared and then taken to the appropriate recycler. We provide our clients with options in finding a new home for re-usable, unwanted office furniture. Computer and electronic equipment is taken to an authorized recycler who can then present our clients with the proper certificates. Our green policy is evolving and has expanded to the area of building decommissioning. For example, thousands of carpet tiles have been removed and taken to recycling. We estimate that our biodiesel fuel usage of a yearly average of 48,000 gallons has reduced
our carbon footprint by approximately 5.3 million pounds. We estimate that our usage of plastic crates over the years has saved approximately 18,000 trees. From January through July of 2011, Sterling Office Moving took 457,660 pounds of scrap metal to be recycled. Our clients have made a commitment to protect the environment both personally and as responsible corporate citizens. They know they have a true partner in this endeavor in Sterling Office Moving. It is possible to be sensitive to the environment and our clients’ needs while performing an office, lab, industrial, and/or warehouse move. As the largest single source commercial mover in New England, we take our responsibility seriously to set an example of what can be done to protect our environment within our industry. Sterling Office Moving believes in providing the highest level of service in the most cost-effective ways while protecting our environment one move at a time. Nancy Broner is director of business development for Sterling Office Moving.
Sterling uses biodiesel fuel
MGM Works at Yale
by Michael Yurish Coinciding with the opening of MGM Carting and Recycling’s Reusable Green Works building materials thrift store was a phone call from John Gundling of Eco One Solutions. Babbidge Facilities Construction was doing a demo and rebuild of a section of Yale School of Medicine and Michael Yurish asked if we were interested in helping them salvage some of the material from the building. Without even seeing the site, we said yes. I had been trying to get some deconstruction and salvage work from Yale for two years and didn’t want to miss this opportunity. We walked the site a few days later with Bob Fratta of Babbidge. When he asked us, “Do you want this?” with raised eyebrows, we answered yes. No matter what “this” was, we said yes. We accumulated 75 assorted office chairs and 25 over-sized red oak interior doors (some including the metal door jam and side-lite window), numerous radiators, oak cabinets, lab tables (one which ended up in a local tattoo parlor), black boards, white boards, metal desks and file cabinets from the 1960s, lab stools, even a water fountain and eye wash station. Some of the material still has an authentic Yale School of Medicine sticker. One of the oak cabinets that is seven
feet high by five feet wide and has glass doors became affectionately known as “the brain locker” because it looks like it could have stored glass nspecimen jars on the shelves containing… you guessed it, brains. We never intended to get into the used office furniture business, but we didn’t want to take only what we wanted. Our goal was to keep as much “stuff” out of the landfill as possible. We took approximately 15,000 pounds of material out of the building. Not necessarily a great amount on its own, but it is seven and a half tons of material that will have a second or maybe third life because of it. When you consider the embodied energy contained in that material, it is a far greater number than 15,000 pounds of material that was salvaged from our collective efforts. We were very pleased to hear from Bob that our efforts helped Babbidge achieve a 96% reuse, recycling, diversion rate on the project. Going forward, we are helping Babbidge Facilities Construction recycle the new sheetrock scraps from the build-out portion of the project. Can I interest anyone in a slightly used brain locker? The stories you tell about it are entirely up to you… we won’t tell. Michael Yurish is the Sales Manager of MGM Carting & Recycling in West Haven, CT
HospitalityGreen offers Training
Going green involves much more than designing or retrofitting a green building. Businesses need to embed green practices within their organizational structure, even in certified green buildings. HospitalityGreen, LLC (HG), is a New York-based consulting firm whose mission is to help businesses and organizations implement sustainable business practices. HG offers a number of green
SENSORY ENVIRONMENTS AN INDIVIDUAL’S SENSE OF PLACE IS BOTH A BIOLOGICAL RESPONSE TO THE SURROUNDING PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT AND A CULTURAL CREATION.
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facilities trainings through community college course offerings, workforce training-funded programs, and on-site employee “Green Team” trainings. Courses cover sustainability principles; energy, water, and resource conservation; of HG’s green facility certification program has been nationally recognized as a Silver Tier program by Greenlodging.org.
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Geothermal Think Tank Takes on an Extraordinary Job
Hampstead, NH - Carl Orio spearheaded development of the standing-column geo-exchange well almost 35 years ago. Today the company he founded in 1981, Hampstead-based Water Energy Distributors, Inc., is recognized as a global leader in geothermal design and distribution. Three years after he incorporated Water Energy Systems, his daughter Christina joined the business as general manager. In 2000, she became president of the firm, changing the name to Water Energy Distributors, Inc. In 2005, Water Energy Distributors was hired as a subcontractor by McFarlandJohnson, an engineering firm of Binghamton, NY, to design an all-geothermal mechanical system for the Merrimack County Nursing Home (MCNH), in Boscawen, N.H. The system – installed in stages during the past several years – incorporates 16 standing column wells and 326 ClimateMaster water-to-air heat pumps for a total of 615 tons of capacity. Many subcontractors came together to complete the county-owned 243,108sf, 296-bed facility. “The first order of business was to closely study the area’s hydrogeologic properties to determine the best location for the well field. Water Energy was instrumental in determining optimum well spacing and number of wells within the identified area having the best hydrogeologic parameters,” said Fred Mock, McFarland-Johnson vice president.
MCNH’s soaring indoor public courtyard
Facilities technician Mark “Chag” Chagnon brazing refrigerant connections.
“Each of the eight-well supply and return manifolds feed well water to a series of risers to the upper floors,” explained Orio. “There are two of the big manifolds; each field feeds half of the building. We generally prefer to have no more than 10 wells, or 300-400 tons, on a given field. At MCNH, there’s a nominal 310 tons on each field.” As customary for all standing column well systems, no circulators are used; there aren’t even any flow centers on the ClimateMaster units. Pressure at the mechanical room sup-
ply manifolds are maintained by the VFDcontrolled submersible pumps which operate in parallel. Pressure in the manifold that serves the upper field is kept at 52 psi, and at 55 psi for the lower manifold, insuring 25 psi at the furthest, fourth floor heat pump. “You take the farthest well and the most distant heat pump, and that gives you the requirement for sizing the submersible pumps,” said Orio. Suspended above drop-ceiling tiles are either three- or four-ton ClimateMaster TS units with copper-nickel heat exchangers. The majority of the units serve two bedroom areas. With the smaller systems, air movement is limited to two rooms, greatly reducing the threat posed by airborne pathogens. “I was skeptical at first,” said Sid McDonald, director of facilities at MCNH. “The bugs got worked out the first year the system was in, and ever since then, it’s has been phenomenal.” Aquifer flow was much better than expected. The flow of water in the wells is so steady, easily maintaining design temp despite the influence of system geoexchange, that there’s no need even for a 5% bleed-off of water. So rich and steady is the supply of waterborne BTUs that, for eight or nine months of the year, only 10 of the 16 wells are used. So, just to keep things equal in the wells, BTUs are tapped from different wells on a rotating basis year-round.
“Chag” Chagnon records well manifold temperatures and pressures. “Based on the heat load, we recommended 16, 10-8-6 wells, each 1,500 feet deep,” said Orio. The term “10-8-6” stands for a 10- inch casing sealed into the bedrock, an eight-inch rock bore, and a sixinch sleeve and pump. Each submersible pump has a 10 hp motor to push water to the building’s mechanical room, and from there to all the heat pumps All 16 wells are located in the nursing home’s parking lot. Split up into two well fields, eight wells are located in the upper parking lot and eight in the lower, with the farthest well being 850 feet from point of entry into the building. Each eight-well field is piped to its own supply and return
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manifold. The caps are protected by manhole covers and can be found in the green spaces between parking areas. Amherst, N.H.-based Skillings and Sons was the driller contracted for the MCNH job. “Each well took us about six days to drill,” said President Roger Skillings. Drilling an eight-inch hole through 1,500 feet of solid granite is no small task; it was a blessing in disguise, though. According to Skillings, the No. 1 enemy of a healthy standing column well is soft rock that cracks, collapses and caves in. “At this site, we found some of the best, mineral-free water we’ve ever seen, and the rock was also very stable,” he added.
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Gaylord Gets First Solar Water System Connecticut Firms Team Up
Middletown, CT - Gaylord Hospital is the first hospital in Connecticut to receive state funding through a grant from the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) for a solar thermal hot water system. Providing the design build services to complete this project will be the team of Consulting Engineering Services (CES) and the Legacy Mechanical Group (LMG), both located in Middletown, and Munger Construction of Branford. As a team, these firms are accustomed to working on projects whose goals are to push the energy efficiency envelope for both commercial and residential projects. CES and LMG have previously partnered together to provide design-build services for Connecticut’s very first Net Zero Energy, LEED Platinum Certified Home located in Killingworth. Gaylord Hospital is aiming to push the envelope even further. Their dedication to energy efficiency and being the first hospital in Connecticut to install a new solar thermal hot water heating system is setting an example for healthcare facilities throughout the state. With a construction cost of $550,000, the $323,000 grant received from the CCEF will offset the cost tremendously for this nonprofit 137 bed hospital. Starting this fall, CES and LMG will begin preparing the roof locations at the hospital for the installation of 70 Solarus Evacuated Tube solar hot water panels. An evacuated tube solar hot water
CES and LMG worked together on the solar hot water design build project at the Hampton ES panel is one of the most efficient and economical solar hot water panels. The evacuated tubes convert sunlight into usable heat. The heat pipes heat up rapidly towards the header pipe where propylene glycol is pumped through, absorbing the heat on its way to the heat exchanger located in the water storage tank. The rooftop panels at Gaylord Hospital will feed into a 3,750 gallon storage tank from which hot water will be distributed throughout the building. This system will reduce the annual hot water needs of the facility by an estimated 65%. The remaining 35% of the hospital’s hot water needs will be provided by oil-fired boilers. The installation of these panels and new, energy-efficient boilers will also drastically reduce the facility’s oil consumption by about 7,000 gallons of fuel oil per year, an annual emission equivalent of 135,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions.
Mosholder Recognized as Rising Star grow awareness about their orBoston Furniture ganization’s mission. Trust (TFT), a nonprofit orAfter witnessing the large ganization committed to proquantities of useable furnishviding alternatives for the ings that often remained after a reuse of excess office furnishclient’s move, Mosholder creings, announced that founder ated TFT to prevent unwanted Christine Mosholder has furniture from ending up in a been named one of Babson landfill. As a socially and enviCollege’s 2011 “Rising Star ronmentally responsible way to Entrepreneurs.” She is also a founder and partner of Fort Christine Mosholder dispose of excess office furniPoint Project Management, a ture, TFT has provided furniture provider of real estate project manage- or cash gifts from furniture sales to many ment and relocation planning services. schools and charities including Boston The annual awards program rec- Public Schools, Roxbury Youthworks, ognizes local business leaders who have the United Way, and several Boys and successfully launched an entrepreneurial Girls Clubs throughout Massachusetts. venture and implemented measures to
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Working Together
Acoustics and Green Design
by Jeffrey Fullerton Although the rewards of building green have been well documented, the acoustics of these projects are not often as thoroughly considered. Green and acoustical design goals can complement each other through the use of energy efficient and quieter HVAC and elevator systems, improved thermal and acoustical isolation, Jeffrey Fullerton and environmentally responsible acoustical materials. These synergies, and several conflicting objectives, are discussed below. Sustainable Design Choices that Make for Good Acoustics Sustainable renovation projects often focus on reducing energy consumption of building systems, improving thermal losses of the existing building, and introducing recycled or rapidly renewable products in the process. Each of these three areas can benefit the acoustical conditions of the final occupied spaces. Energy-efficient mechanical systems may also be quieter choices for a project. For example, projects that call for replacing a small- to moderate-size air-cooled chiller or condenser may gain significant energy and acoustical benefits by using a geothermal system, which operates with lower sound levels and eliminates the noisy exterior equipment that might bother the top-floor building tenants or the neighbors. Another potential source of noise in a commercial office space is the elevator system. Today, new energy efficient elevators using direct drive motors are quieter replacements to the noisy hydraulic compressors and geared elevator systems of the past. A key facet of reducing energy use is considering the thermal performance of elements of the building envelope. This typically involves thicker insulation, comprehensive air sealing, and upgraded window and door assemblies. Because sound transmits through air, the side benefit of these thermal upgrades is better sound isolation. Some energy-efficient buildings are even utilizing double-wall exterior façades to improve their thermal efficiency, with the additional benefit of extraordinary isolation from noisy exterior environments. Designers can now choose from a range of green acoustical products. These include: batt insulation made from recycled cotton fibers that can be used for improving the sound isolation of demising walls between rooms; rapidly renewable substrates and veneers used for ceiling panel products where sound absorption is desired; and fiberfree products that provide sound absorption without fiberglass materials. Other sustainable products can provide acoustical benefits, increase design flexibility, and minimize demolition waste. Demountable partitions are an excellent choice for laying out closed offices and rooms that require more acoustical separation than a typical open office area. These systems enable facility managers to significantly change the layout of spaces without the cost and waste associated with traditional stud construction.
Still, it may be important to compensate for the demountable partitions’ lower privacy performance with electronically produced background noise. When Sustainability and Acoustics Don’t Jive Not all sustainable design ideas provide acoustical benefits; in fact, several can conflict with acoustical design goals. Often, compromises or innovative, alternative solutions for sustainable renovation projects can be found. For example, passive ventilation can be an ideal way to save significantly on energy while tempering the interior environment. However, this approach should be considered with some caution, as an open window allows noise in as well. It would be appropriate to consider passive ventilation designs in areas with quiet exterior sound levels or rooms that are less sensitive acoustically. Another example is thermal insulation. It is a misconception that all thermal insulation provides excellent acoustical performance. In reality, thermal insulation provides the benefit of sound absorption – and in turn noise reduction – only when it is porous. The fibrous structure of typical batt insulations, made of fiberglass, mineral wool (or rock wool), recycled denim, or open cell foam, converts sound energy into heat. As a result, these porous insulations are very effective for sound absorption. On the other hand, closed cell foam insulations, which consist of small pockets of air, provide exceptional thermal insulation but prevent sound energy from being absorbed. For these reasons, exterior façades made with closed-cell foams can be a concern for projects in high-noise areas. Another misconception is that “triple pane” windows – windows with glazing that is spaced within a total thickness of about one inch (25 mm) or less – have great sound isolation performance. Within that one-inch, there may be three layers of glass (and two air cavities), which have very good thermal performance. However, the thin air spaces do not effectively isolate the panes from each other, and thereby transmit sound and provide little sound isolation. Acoustical test data of triple pane windows have demonstrated that there is little acoustical benefit over a double pane insulated system. Lastly, many commercial office occupants benefit from natural light and views, a green design approach that involves lowering obstructions between people and the exterior windows. However, lowering or removing workstation barriers will limit the acoustical separation between occupants. A compromise could be to integrate office furniture that consists of workstation barriers made of transparent materials, such as glass or plexiglass. These have the desired optical qualities but are also able to block sound transmission by increasing the height of the barrier. As with every other design decision on a project, balance the goals and allow compromises for sustainability to create a project that works for its intended purpose. With a little extra thought and attention, sustainable changes can improve occupant productivity and comfort through better acoustic conditions. Jeff Fullerton, INCE Bd. Cert., LEED AP is the director of architectural acoustics at Acentech Inc.
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Window Film: The First-Step Energy Conservation Measure by Peter J. Davey According to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES), “Space heating, cooling, and ventilation account for the largest amount of end-use energy consumption in both commercial and residential buildings. In the commercial sector they are responsible for 34% of energy used on site and 31% of primary Peter Davey energy use.” (C2ES, Building Envelope; Quick Facts; April 2011; http://www. pewclimate.org/technology/factsheet/ BuildingEnvelope.) C2ES sites residential and commercial buildings accounting for approximately 39 % of U.S. energy consumption and 38% of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions. A major component of any building envelope is its fenestration including windows, doors, skylights and curtain walls. A 10 to 40 % reduction in lighting and HVAC costs can be achieved by improving the energy efficiency of fenestration of commercial buildings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy/Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, windows account for 10 to 25% of heating bills and they are the greatest source of heat loss and gain in any building. Minimizing this heat loss in colder months and heat gain in warmer months is
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crucial to reducing the amount of energy required to heat and cool a building. A quality window film retrofit is recognized as a cost effective solution for improving any building envelope’s energy efficiency. Window film manufacturers are now able to certify their products’ energy performance ratings according to the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) certification process. The NFRC provides an independent, third-party verification of window film performance. Its rating system allows consumers to compare window film products and to verify their energy perfor-
the potential for daylighting. For architects, engineers and building owners looking to achieve LEED certification, many window films meet LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisites and qualify for LEED credits. Qualifying categories for credits include “Indoor Environmental Quality”, “Daylight and Views” and “Optimize Energy Performance” among others. Insulating, Low-E window films have been specifically designed to conserve energy. Featuring “Wavelength-Selective” metals which block more of the solar spectrum than convenWindow film manufacturers are now able to tional metals, some certify their products’ energy performance ratings window films can reaccording to the National Fenestration Rating duce air conditioning costs by blocking up Council (NFRC) certification process...Its rating to 73% of the sun’s system allows consumers to compare window film heat. They can also products and to verify their energy performance. reduce heat loss by up to 30%. Utilizing a metal coating, their mance. An NFRC label provides units of construction enables interior room heat to measure that are valuable when applying be reflected back into the room. Personal for LEED credits, including: comfort is improved and reduction in drafts • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and fluctuations in temperature can gener(SGHC) - a measure (between 0.0 and 1.0) ate considerable savings on fuel expense. of how well a product blocks heat from If a building already has Low-E winthe sun. The lower the SGHC, the better a dows installed, window film can enhance product is at blocking heat gain. their performance. A Low-E window can • Visible Transmittance (VT) - a mea- block up to 90%of UV radiation. The same sure (between 0.0 and 1.0) of how much window with an appropriate window film light comes through a particular window installed will block more than 99% of the film product. The higher the VT, the higher UV radiation that contributes to heat loss
and gain. Also, Low-E windows do not ordinarily reduce glare since most have a visible light transmission greater than 70%. There are window films on the market that can reduce glare by up to 80%. In addition, window films will improve the safety of Low-E windows that do not typically protect against flying glass unless they are tempered. If safety is a priority, there are specific window films manufactured for maximum impact mitigation. Designed to hold shattered windowpanes together in the event of blasts, high-impact blows or violent weather, safety films significantly enhance security and reduce the risk of injury from flying glass shards. The energy efficiency and safety of a building envelope has rapidly become a priority for architects, engineers and building owners. A quality window film, professionally installed, affords little disruption to business continuity and will pay for itself in short order with dollars saved in utility expense. For large-scale projects, an authorized window film dealer will be able to assist with appropriate film selection for a specific application as well as with documentation of return-on-investment projections. It makes good sense to prioritize your energy conservation measures with a “first-step” installation of cost effective insulating window film. Peter J. Davey is president of American Window Film, Inc., a 3M™ Authorized Prestige Window Film Dealer, located in Foxboro, MA and Atlanta, GA,
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
A Renewable Energy Portfolio Requires Incentives
Editor’s note: The views and opinions expressed in the following article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of HighProfile Monthly. by Doug Pope Encouraging natural gas development may be the means to replacing federal programs to incentivize a significant, national renewable energy portfolio. Without grants, tax-credits or other incentives, many potential renewable energy resources will simply not be developed. The thirtyDoug Pope percent (30%) grant program for eligible renewable energy projects administered by the Department of the Treasury known as the 1603 American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act (ARRATA) ends December 31, 2011. In its place is a 30% tax-credit program with proscribed limits on certain initiatives and no upper limit on geo-thermal heat pumps, solar energy or wind energy systems. The 30% tax-credit program running through 2016 is still significant, but benefits larger financial players who have the capacity to monetize the tax benefits as opposed to smaller investors who benefited from the lower installed cost with the grant.
The grant program made renewable energy projects bankable for smaller investors, but project feasibility is diluted by bringing in larger players to take advantage of the tax credits. The debate as to how to perpetuate broad based renewable energy installations is going to continue. Some will argue that renewable energy will simply have to compete with the lowest cost source of energy. That argument does not contemplate the total cost of carbon or nuclear-based systems. There is a balance-of-trade cost to sending large amounts of dollars overseas year over year for our energy needs. There is a cost to the accelerated depreciation of our building envelope systems due to degradation by acid based contaminants. Health cost, loss of productivity and opportunity due to environmental contaminants are compounding costs. The cost of carbon-based fuels often does not recognize the cost of public infrastructure that took decades to construct. Nuclear is a valuable and efficient technology as long as nothing goes wrong. To say that renewable energy cannot compete, simply does not recognize the total cost of carbon-based energy. Massachusetts has the right model that should be shamelessly copied by other states. Renewable portfolio standards and accompanying REC’s and SREC’s, net metering, tax credits, rebates, state grants plus the renewable energy payments otherwise known as feed-in-tariffs (FITs) are all
part of an integrated economic model that is encouraging the private sector to invest in renewable energy. Feed-in-tariffs are billed per kilowatt-hour of electrical usage. Massachusetts’s consumers pay 0.0667 per kWh for Energy Efficiency Charges, and 0.050 per kWh for Renewables Charges for all residential and commercial accounts. By regulation, these funds are accumulated and disbursed by the regulated utilities within the state. The feed-in-tariff funds are not received by the state government treasury but by the regulated utility and are required to be expeditiously disbursed to qualified energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives by energy consumers. This system is not perfect, as the utilities need to accelerate processing and disbursement of the funds as well as the prequalification of new emerging technologies being introduced. Participation of renewable energy feed-in-tariff pricing is already in place at the wholesale ISO-NE level typically seen at 25 mils or .0025 per kWh. So how can domestic natural gas development provide an alternative to Treasury funded (i.e. US Taxpayer funded) solutions? Increase supply will depress the cost of natural gas allowing margins for a feed-in-tariff on this natural gas resource. Natural gas is a cleaner, less impactful carbon fuel and due to hydro fracturing is becoming an increasingly available commodity. We should encourage this established technology, providing sufficient regulation to ensure local environments are not damaged and look for natural gas prices to drop due to increased supply. We should encourage new gas distribution lines into the capacity constrained northeast. This will assist our region in our recovery from this recession and keep our businesses competitive. Each state, through their respective utilities or designated non-profit renewable energy disbursement entity would receive feed-in-tariff funds on a per MMBTU basis. Cleaner natural gas, available in this
country would provide the basis for a significant, permanently installed renewable energy industry. Massachusetts has set goals to reduce emissions by 20% by 2020. As a nation we should achieve an installed base of 40% renewable energy production by 2040. The economic multiplier of having a county run on 40% of renewable energy would be a significant economic engine not only in jobs created, but would recycle money within our own economy and would produce a more competitive, cleaner, less costly environment and in turn provide greater economic security. A significant renewable energy portfolio will not be without cost. Reliability of our electrical system is something we take for granted, but it is not without concerted management, engineering, and infrastructure cost. Intermittent renewable resources like solar and wind will need to be backed up by responsive fast start generation and balancing resources. Rapid, continuous deployment of renewable energy resources will encourage new technologies to be developed and implemented to meet market and system demands. Achieving a significant installed portfolio of energy provided from renewable sources is achievable only if states, perhaps organized by ISO region, adopt renewable energy programs that continuously incentivize renewable and sustainable investment. Encouraging domestic natural gas and adding a renewable energy portfolio tariff may provide a consumption-based solution in place of a federal treasury program. Doug Pope is President of Pope Energy. Pope Energy is a broker of electricity and natural gas, a provider of demand response resources, energy efficiency technologies and is a renewable energy designbuild installer of solar, geothermal and cogeneration systems.
IES Introduces Sustainability Hub
Boston - Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES) showcased its sustainable building design technology at the US Green Building Council (USGBC) Greenbuild International Conference and Expo. The company also unveiled its vision for the future, developed as a consequence of numerous organizations seeing IES as the “hub” for sustainable design advancements. Built off the idea that if you cannot measure something, you cannot prove it, the “sustainability hub” is the concept that organizations should be able to quantify, optimize, and verify their objectives through analysis, delivering a sustainable future for our cities and buildings. IES is well-known for its innovation and expertise in creating early-stage to detailed building performance analysis tools, as well as the supply of related
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consulting and specialist services. For almost two decades, IES has been pushing the ethos of integrated design and incorporation of performance analysis right from the earliest new-build and retrofit stages as the route to achieving truly sustainable, low-energy structures. “IES is redefining the building analysis market to improve the way in which we design sustainable buildings, by cutting through greenwash to deliver measurable results,” said Dr. Don McLean, founder and CEO of IES. “Over the last year, IES has entered into a number of relationships with organizations at the forefront of sustainability in the built environment. Being seen by the wider market as the go-to analysis solutions provider has led to a realization of the role IES is playing and will play as the sustainability hub going forward.”
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December, 2011
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Greenhouse at UMass Completed
Photo by Warren Jagger Photography
The greenhouses are comprised of an open, flexible environment for plant growth and experimentation.
Boston - The CNS Research and Education Greenhouse at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst (UMass Amherst) was recently completed. The combined 20,000sf complex supports advanced research in the plant, soil, and insect sciences. The complex’s design balances the historic and agrarian character of the university’s roots with the spirit of cutting-edge botanical research. The project was designed by Payette. The facility includes a new 10,000sf research greenhouse, a new 5,500sf research laboratory, and a renovated 4,500sf teaching greenhouse. The greenhouse features sophisticated automated systems that control natural and artificial light, temperature, humidity, irrigation, and fertilization. The finetuning of these controls enables maximum research capacity and allows for cuttingedge plant experimentation. “These state-of-the-art greenhouses, the largest in the Commonwealth, enhance our research, teaching, and extension endeavors,” said Steve Goodwin, dean of the College of Natural Sciences. “The sophisticated design is as beautiful as it is ener-
gy-efficient and provides a sustainable infrastructure to facilitate plant growth. The new laboratory and classroom spaces are housed in the same structure, and provide a one-stop-shopping space for learning and experimentation.” The greenhouses are comprised of an open, flexible environment for plant growth and experimentation, while the laboratory is a sophisticated research and teaching facility that includes two research labs, a wet/dry botany classroom, and a seed germination facility. Project interiors maintain a simple and minimal character that is in keeping with the agrarian style. The laboratory, which is housed in a modern reinterpretation of a New England barn, takes on a similar shape and character to the greenhouses, thereby creating a single, unified facility rather than a collection of differing building elements. Designed to meet LEED Silver certification by the United States Green Building Council, the greenhouses feature an innovative stormwater retention system, sustainably harvested woods, a “heat wheel” energy recovery system for the labs, and an evaporative cooling system for the greenhouse.
ARC Mechanical Certified
Waitsfield, VT – Freeaire Refrigeration of Waitsfield recently partnered with ARC Mechanical Contractors, Inc. to help businesses minimize the money spent on costly refrigeration and lessen their environmental impact. Freeaire manufactures products that can cut refrigeration costs by as much as 60% using cold outside air and an electronic controller engineered for overall system efficiency. “Equipping ARC with the tools and knowledge to install and maintain Freeaire systems will provide greater access to the energy and money savings of these systems for area businesses,” said Freeaire’s president and founder, Richard Travers.
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To achieve maximum energy savings, each Freeaire system features a powerful computer called the Cooler Controller. In any climate this computer ensures that each component of a business’ conventional compressor-based refrigeration system operates only as much as necessary. In colder climates, the Polar Power Package serves to harness cold, super-filtered outside air to be used inside for cooling, using just a fraction of the energy. The rebates currently available from Efficiency Vermont and many of New England’s electric utilities provide additional incentives for companies to install Freeaire systems.
Forrester Research’s New HQ
by Janet Morra Cambridge, MA - Margulies Perruzzi Architects (MPA) recently completed a sustainably designed and open office space for one of its repeat clients: Forrester Research moved into its new 190,000sf corporate headquarters at Cambridge Discovery Park in Cambridge. The office is expected to achieve a LEED Gold rating from the US Green Building Council (USGBC). An indepenJanet Morra dent research company that provides pragmatic and forward-thinking advice to global leaders in business and technology, Forrester had outgrown its former home at 400 Technology Square in Cambridge and sought a space that could accommodate its flexible work style and growth needs. MPA provided interior architecture and corporate design services for Forrester’s new six-story headquarters at Cambridge Discovery Park. During the design process, MPA worked with Forrester to conduct in-house research and solicit feedback from the entire company and then translate that information into a workable architectural program. “The Margulies Perruzzi Architects (MPA) team has brought enthusiasm and creativity to our largest design project yet, and we are excited by the distinctive design features and functionality of our new corporate headquarters,” said Jean Baranowski, vice president of corporate services at Forrester Research. “Having worked together for 10 years on multiple projects, MPA understands our collaborative culture and flexible work style, as well as the importance of sustainability to our company. As a result, they have designed a relevant, welcoming space for our clients and employees that enhances Forrester’s physical brand.” Built specifically for Forrester, the new base building was designed by ADD Inc. with MPA collaboration. Forrester’s new headquarters emphasizes a connection to the green outdoor space adjacent to the building. The building overlooks a newly re-
stored “urban wild,” a naturalistic designed landscape that can be used for recreational purposes. Forrester’s office was designed to provide views of nature to everyone: all enclosed rooms are on the interior, and the perimeter windows are accessible to all employees and guests. In addition to product specification and recycling that will fulfill LEED Gold certification, the project will also achieve a 35% reduction in water use and a 35% reduction in lighting power, due to the use of LED lighting and daylight harvesting. Embracing an alternative workplace design with no private offices, the new headquarters features an open workspace with workstations clustered around white-board clad team rooms, creating neighborhoods to foster collaboration. In addition to the team rooms distributed around the space, there are quiet rooms for concentrated work and larger glass-fronted team rooms clustered at the center of each floor. Two kitchen/lounge areas located next to each of the glass-enclosed egress stairs are key to the collaborative nature of each floor. Forrester’s new office also features a café and workshop/ conference center. For Forrester, the conference room experience is critical for a company without private offices, and a larger conference space with enhanced audiovisual capability was essential for staff to leverage technology while communicating with Forrester offices around the world. Forrester’s conference center resides on the first and second floors for client convenience and staff privacy, and includes 17 conference rooms of varying sizes with videoconferencing and future telepresence capabilities. It also includes a large multi-purpose room for client seminars and companywide meetings. Forrester’s new conference center provides the highest level of technology integration, facility flexibility, and client amenities, which will allow Forrester to continue to provide a superior level of client service. MPA and Forrester have collaborated for over 10 years on multiple projects, including the recent design of Forrester’s New York City and San Francisco offices. Janet Morra, AIA, LEED AP, is a principal at Margulies Perruzzi Architects.
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High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
RDK Celebrates Net Zero Energy Bldg. DiMella Shaffer Architect
Exterior Net Zero Energy Building Danvers, MA - RDK Engineers joined over 100 spectators in celebrating the grand opening of North Shore Community College’s new Health Professions and Student Services Building, the first state-funded Net Zero Energy Building (ZNEB). RDK provided MEP engineering services for the three-story, 58,700sf building. DiMella Shaffer served as the architect and Walsh Brothers as the contractor. Ten years in the making, the building consolidates the college’s allied health professions programs – including nursing, animal sciences, physical therapy, respiratory therapy, and medical assistance disciplines – under one roof. A building is classified as a ZNEB if
ReBuild Program Announced
Boston - The Patrick-Murray Administration announced the program details of more than $8 million to help building owners affected by the June 1 tornadoes rebuild using energy efficiency practices and renewable energy technologies. Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. made the announcement as part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s commitment to help communities rebuild and recover from tornado damage. The department of Energy and Environmental Affairs announced its new call center telephone number of (800) 628-8413 and website at www.mass. gov/energy/rebuildwesternma, provided additional program details, and named the banks participating in the ReBuild Western Massachusetts program, which was previously announced in August. Adding to existing services and incentives offered by gas and electric utilities, ReBuild Western Massachusetts incentives for homeowners include zero-interest loans in collaboration with Monson Savings Bank and Country
the amount of energy produced on site is equal to or greater than the amount of energy consumed on a yearly basis. In addition to being the first state-funded ZNEB, the health professions and student services building is the second largest facility of its type in the nation. Sustainable features include a green roof; rainwater collection systems; photovoltaic panels on the roof and walkway canopies; a geothermal heating and cooling system; ground source heat pumps; rain gardens; and high-efficiency mechanical Bow, NH - Phase two of Grappone and electrical systems. Automotive Group’s new 77,000sf enerThe building is targeting LEED Gold gy-efficient Toyota dealership and service certification, with annual energy savings facility in Bow is now underway. Jewett estimated at $100,000 per year. Automotive Design & Construction, a division of parent company Jewett Construction Co., Inc. of Raymond, recently completed the first phase. This final stage of the extensive project, slated for completion in May, 2012, includes the completion of a new showroom, Toyota portal, and extension of the glass Asbestos & Lead Removal • Mold Remediation atrium along Rt. 3-A; as well as new office Demolition • High Performance Coatings space and the fitting out of an 11,500sf preengineered building to house new service Environmental Clean-up • Disaster Recovery bays. All metals work is being performed by Jewett Metal Buildings & Steel ErecProject Partners Include: tors, another division of JCCI. • University of NH • PSNH • Boott Mills Boston - The Fifth Annual Mas• Concord Hospital sachusetts Clean Energy Week at the • Salvation Army Massachusetts Clean Energy Center re• Old North Church cently highlighted the Commonwealth’s • The Dimock Center vibrant clean energy industry and state • Harvard Medical Center clean energy leadership. “Thanks to our investments in this • Fairpoint Communications growing industry, Massachusetts is now • Phillips Exeter Academy a national leader in clean energy,” said • Kingswood Regional Schools Governor Deval Patrick. “Clean Energy Week showcases the Commonwealth’s vibrant clean energy sector that will fuel our economy and protect our environment well into the future.” Governor Patrick hosted 11 ininfo@envirovantage.com ternational companies from Mexico, www.EnviroVantage.com France, Norway, Italy, Venezuela, and
Bank, and grants for building with energy efficient windows, doors, attic and wall insulation, and heating equipment. The program will also offer $1 million in incentives for solar PV and solar thermal systems. In combination with other federal and state incentives, the program will allow impacted residents to offset substantially more than 50% (in some cases up to 80%) of the total installed cost for renewable systems. Offerings developed later this year will include energy efficiency for commercial buildings up to $60,000, and up to $100,000 for municipal buildings affected by tornado damage. Eligible participants include those who can document damage caused by the June 1 storms, and who own buildings in communities in Hampden and Worcester Counties, including: Agawam, Westfield, West Springfield, Springfield, Wilbraham, Monson, Brimfield, Southbridge, and Sturbridge.
Grappone Dealership Energy Efficient
When finished, Grappone’s new facility will reduce its water usage by 20%, and increase energy efficiency by 20%. “Green” energy saving technologies being incorporated include a state-of-theart geothermal heating system, larger windows to take advantage of natural light, increased insulation, energy saving lighting and plumbing fixtures, and the use of components made of recycled materials. Upwards of 90% of construction debris is being recycled or reused in the new dealership which is expected to receive LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council—becoming the first dealership in New England to do so.
Clean Energy Week
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Israel in the Commonwealth’s first-ever Global Clean Energy Week, designed to give international clean energy companies an opportunity to explore the unique opportunities that Massachusetts offers as a strategic entry point to the US clean energy market. “Massachusetts has been recognized on the national stage for leadership in energy efficiency and deployment of solar energy, and we have released new job numbers illustrating the growing importance of our clean energy sector to the state’s overall economy,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr.
629 Calef Highway, Epping, NH 03042
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Green Development News
December, 2011
19
High-Profile: Annual Green Facilities Developments
Cannon Holds Mini Trade Show
Boston - Vendors and representatives from architectural and engineering firms joined in the lobby of Cannon Design’s Boston offices in October to showcase ecofriendly products and services as part of the corporation’s 10th Annual Environmental Awareness Week. Mark Mendell, Harvard professor of economics gave a presentation on the vital role urban areas play in nurturing and promoting eco-friendly economic and cultural achievement.
Harvard Professor of Economics Dr. Edward Glaeser discussed the importance of integrating eco-friendly behavior into contemporary business strategies and the history of environmental activism in New England. Over 1,000 Cannon employees drew together to reevaluate the company’s business model in the context of sustainability and environmental awareness.
l-r - Professor Mark Mendell, Edward Glaeser, Jenine Talbot, Sachiko Miyagi, and Mike Cavanaugh pose after Dr. Glaeser’s presentation.
l-r Rupinder Signh and Phillip Schuler, Cannon associate VPs, work to prepare for the firm’s 10th Annual Environmental Awareness Week.
CBR425HOUSECLR 2:27 PMExecutive Page 1 Dr. Glaeser talks10/29/07 to Cannon Design’s
Management Team
Eco-friendly products and technologies are inpected by the management team.
What if we thought of everything?
Cannon Design Lobby Trade Show Display
Members of Cannon Design’s management team stop to inspect Philips Lightolier’s eco-friendly illumination technologies on display.
Dr Glaeser with images of Henry David Thoreau and Concord’s Walden Pond emblazoned behind him.
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