NET ZERO

Integrated design is central to achieving sustainable design. Achieving a sustainable design requires a collaborative design process. We begin with all members of the design and engineering team and the users to explore the requirements and the alternative solutions that will meet those requirements.

There are four key decisions that determine the energy efficiency of a building during the design process: massing, orientation, fenestration, and mechanical systems. We explore the efficiencies of using renewable resources, analyzing first costs, operational capacities, and long-term benefits.

TSKP x IKD has four Net Zero Energy public schools. We achieve true Net Zero Energy by reducing the operational demand of the buildings. Completed in 2022, the Buckley Elementary School project is a renovation with an Energy Use Intensity (EUI) projected at 18.1. Completed in 2023, Mansfield Elementary School is a new grade PreK-4 school with a EUI project at 17.3. Construction for Bowers Elementary School is currently ongoing, followed by Keeney Elementary School which is now in design. No fossil fuels are used for normal building operations in these facilities.

Net Zero Energy is attractive because the facilities rely on renewable energy like solar and wind that do not release carbon emissions into the atmosphere. In addition to the economic and environmental benefits, there are also socio-emotional and educational benefits of attending a Net Zero Energy school.