Many scientists are beginning to use energy efficiency as a criterion for selecting laboratory space and equipment. This benefits the environment, but also helps reduce operating costs of the building, saving tenants money. Energy efficiency features of the BTBC include:
- Two story design to reduce building footprint
- Use of concrete floor slab for finished flooring reduces material use
- TPO roofing used to increase roof reflectivity and reduce heat island effect
- Abundant natural light to all public spaces
- High recycled content of many building materials
- Recycling area for collection of recyclables
- Time of day lighting scheduling
- Multi-level switching
- Occupancy sensor switching
- Meeting IEEC watts/sq.ft. requirements
- High efficiency lighting
- Low flow plumbing fixtures
- High efficiency gas water heaters
- Temperature controlled hot water recirculation system
- Enhanced refrigerant management
- Non-CFC refrigerant
- Variable volume controls on non-lab spaces
- High efficiency gas boilers
- Low flow fume hoods
- Variable volume Laboratory Airflow Controls
- Full building automation system.
- Bicycle storage
- Minimal exterior lighting to reduce energy usage
- Buffalo grass used to reduce maintenance and irrigation on the site.
