Science and Technology Facility, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (Golden, CO)

Department of Energy

NREL's new Science and Technology Facility is a 71,000sf laboratory that will use 41 percent less energy than conventional construction, saving $96,000 per year. An efficient ventilation system with variable-air-volume supply and exhaust coupled with heat recovery, low-flow fume hoods, evaporative cooling and an efficient central plant contribute to this savings. The building also incorporates 27 percent local or regional building materials, recycled 80 percent of its construction waste, and has a storm water detention system, xeriscaping, and low-flow water fixtures to reduce water consumption. These features contribute to NREL-expected Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED™) certification.