ASHRAE celebrated the grand opening of its new global headquarters building, a renovation project intended to prove the economic viability of a fully net-zero-energy (NZE) operation.

The 10-month project was completed in part to show how an existing building can be renovated with net-zero energy as the focus, using the organization’s own standards and guidelines, rather than building a new structure. Last month, a Photovoltaic (PV) solar array system was installed, making the building’s operation a fully net-zero energy performance.

“The completion of this project is an important milestone for ASHRAE as a professional society and for the built environment worldwide,” said ASHRAE president Mick Schwedler. “Our investments in energy efficiency and sustainability will boost innovation within the built environment and inspire others to replicate our headquarters’ project model. Our Society reimagined a pathway forward for existing building stock and is pleased to provide an example of the future of high performance buildings.”

Learn more in the ASHRAE news item.