According to USGBC.org, Ohio has more LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) schools than any other U.S. state, and is seventh in total number of LEED certified projects. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is the US Green Building Council’s certification program for green buildings. According to USGBC, LEED certified buildings can cut energy and water bills by up to 40%, saving the building owner or tenants’ money over time. Here are some of Cleveland’s most energy efficient buildings.
Cleveland Environmental Center
The Cleveland Environmental Center incorporated green building strategies that included:
Energy efficiency:
Geothermal heating and cooling system contributing to a 67% more efficient building, low E glazed, double pane windows, E-Rated reflective coating on roof, lighting control system featuring motion and light sensors.
Water efficiency / storm water:
Low Flow Fixtures, waterless urinals, irrigation free landscaping featuring native plant species, Green Roof, permeable pavements.
Resource reuse:
Redeveloping an existing structure in an urban area & reuse of many building materials. And construction waste management plan with a goal of recycling 75% of construction waste. Building materials contain high level of recycled content.
Cleveland Foodbank
The Cleveland Foodbank earned the distinction as the first commercial building in Greater Cleveland to earn LEED Certification from the USGBC.
Cleveland State University Howe Mansion, Administration Center, Julka Hall
Cleveland State University has deployed several green initiatives including:
Resource conservation:
22% of all construction materials were regionally sourced, with certified wood used throughout. Building products contained 30% recycled content. 95% of construction waste was recycled. Refurbished air handlers salvaged from CSU’s old Student Center.
Energy efficiency:
Displacement ventilation, high-performance glass, radiant floors and sun shading yielded a 26% reduction in energy usage. Two years of wind-power credits provided green power. White roof membrane installed to reduce the heat island effect.
Water efficiency:
Water usage reduced by 30%. Landscaping promotes storm water retention and includes a rain garden with native plants.
Julka Hall achieved its LEED Gold certification in 2010.
John Carroll University Dolan Center for Science & Technology
Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) best practices are being employed in all renovation and construction projects. Read more about John Carroll’s sustainability initiatives here.
ideastream/Playhouse Square Arts and Education Center
This $5.3-million project was largely paid for by a $3-million grant from the Gund Foundation.
For more information, contact us today at www.brilliantsourceenergy.com/.
