Stony Brook University Welcomes Renewable Energy Center

A new research facility at Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, New York is dedicated to research on renewable energy sources, including hydrogen energy, fuel cells, and energy conservation. A recent Inhabitat article profiles the Advanced Energy Center, which works to advance clean energy through research while exemplifying the technology it promotes.

Designed by Flad Architects, the building is covered in photovoltaic louvers on the south side, and also has solar thermal systems on the roof, thus generating a portion of its own energy. In fact, the building is expected to achieve LEED Platinum certification as a result of its extensive energy-efficiency design features.

Other green features include a system that makes ice overnight in tanks, which is then released back into the building during the day for cooling, and radiant floor heating for the cooler months. Daylighting, solar tubes, skylights, and energy recovery units work to minimize energy use.

A butterfuly roof captures, collects, and directs rainwater into an underground cistern, where the water is used to flush the building’s toilets. Outside, landscaping is drought-tolerant, promotes biodiversity, and infiltrates stormwater from the roof and hardscapes, the article notes.

The building has already earned significant accolades, including New York Construction Magazine’s 2010 Green Building Project of the Year.

The two-story building houses dedicated lab space for a variety of energy-related research and development. The 49,000 square-foot, $31 million facility also houses demonstration and testing areas for the evaluation of emerging technologies. Additionally, the facility houses research programs that investigate power distribution systems, biofuels, nanotechnology, photovoltaics, and energy policy.

Chris Timmerman
Contributing Writer
Green Education Services
www.greenedu.com