Net zero energy: A case study with richardsville elementary school, Kentucky

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Blazing the trail as the home to the first Net Zero Energy School in the United States, Richardsville Elementary School produces as much renewable energy as it consumes. It must be noted that in December 2007, the U.S. Congress enacted the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) which stipulates, among other things, "a strong energy portfolio for a strong America." EISA is based on the premise that energy efficiency and clean renewable energy will translate to a stronger economy, a cleaner environment, and greater energy independence. The 72,285 ft2 high performance Richardsville Elementary School building has a north-south orientation, is located in a 10.2-acre site and was opened in October 2010. The two-story sustainable K-12 facility was designed for 550 students and has LEED® Gold Certification with USGBC As a teaching tool, it implements an energy-based curriculum strategy for learning and engagement opportunities. The key elements of this high performance building (construction cost = $12.16 million for the main building and 2.77 million for the solar package and structure) include: Insulated concrete form wall construction and high performance building envelope; Geothermal HVAC system with de-centralized and distributive pumping for heating, cooling, and hot water needs, and CO2 monitoring; Active day-lighting with light shelves and Solatubes®; Compact two story design with reduced building volume; Roof adhered thin film photovoltaic system; and Bio-swales. The building was constructed mainly with cost effective, renewable materials with easy maintenance and the kitchen was furnished with Energy Star rated equipment that allow for more efficient cooking. Additionally, the building has an outdoor classroom with a wireless, solar-operated weather station equipped with the capability of measuring rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind speed, solar and ultraviolet radiation and real time software for uploading data to the media center and the internet.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationWorld Energy Engineering Congress 2012, WEEC 2012
Pages1178-1184
Number of pages7
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
EventWorld Energy Engineering Congress 2012, WEEC 2012 - Atlanta, GA, United States
Duration: Oct 31 2012Nov 2 2012

Publication series

NameWorld Energy Engineering Congress 2012, WEEC 2012
Volume2

Conference

ConferenceWorld Energy Engineering Congress 2012, WEEC 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAtlanta, GA
Period10/31/1211/2/12

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

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