A goal to minimize use of fossil fuel energy.
75% of the energy produced in the United States is from the combustion of fossil fuels. This process of generating energy impacts the environment in many negative ways including: release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, air pollution, water pollution, accumulation of solid waste, land degradation, and human illness. To alleviate these negative impacts, we must reduce the demand for fossil fuels. The Gadsden Center Remodel and Addition employs several methods of doing so.* (Photograph ISS015-E-10469, courtesy NASA/JSC Gateway to Astronaut Photography of Earth.)
Optimized Energy Performance & Enhanced Refrigeration Management
Any building is going to require resources like energy and refrigerant to function. Extra resource usage can negatively impact the environment. If certain systems, products, construction methods, and management procedures are followed, a building can use less resources and still function properly.
Doña Ana Community College used state of the art systems to produce a center that not only functions well, but saves resources compared to similar buildings.
Measurement & Verification
The system will be monitored and re-calibrated to best evaluate the energy consuming systems. The Measurement and Verification Plan defines the actions that the Doña Ana Community College staff and the LEED AP will take to monitor the system. This plan outlines corrective actions to improve building performance if any of the systems are found to operating outside of their expected parameters. Commissioning, observation and recording of physical operational and seasonal conditions, and coordination with operation and maintenance staff.
Fundamental Commissioning
of the Energy Systems
Commissioning is a systematic process of ensuring all building systems perform interactively according to Project Requirements. Commissioning encompasses and coordinates traditionally separate functions in order to acheive optimal energy conservation and performance. The Commissioning process begins at project inception (during the pre-design phase) and usually continues through the completion of the construction primary warranty period.