After 25 years of championing innovative energy initiatives, WECC took on the challenge of creating its own LEED Gold-certified commercial office building. The goal was to show energy conscious developers and business owners how they can build energy efficient, sustainable buildings economically— and why being environmentally responsible can be a smart and affordable business decision. The new 34,000 square foot office building showcases energy efficient, environmentally sensitive, sustainable office building design concepts and construction practices. The key LEED features include minimal site disturbance, natural daylight provided to 75 percent or more of office work space, water efficient landscaping and plumbing fixtures, and energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems to reduce energy use over the life of the building. Vogel Bros. Building Co. was able to achieve at least an 85% reduction in construction waste, greatly minimizing the waste headed to the local landfill.
