By Barbara Carss

-- Continuation from Page 4 --
and showing them around. We can all learn from the design of this building, but there is no better time to teach the concept of energy efficiency than ar a young age. One of the most impressive aspects of the new wing is the ability to walk down the halls ans learn independently or by guide. It is truly a phenomenal piece of architecture."

EFFICIENCY ELEMENTS SUPPORT RESEARCH
The geothermal heating system and mechanical system that captures and redirects waste heat are major contributors to an estimated $36,000 in annual energy cost savings. Exterior walls constructed of durisol blocks, made from low-grade chipped wood rather than conventional concrete, serve both a heat and sound absorption function. Inside, furnishings were chosen in fabrics and finishes more likely to repel heat.

Natural light is exploited where possible -- for example,, via 14 skylights in the library and large sliding doors that open to outdoor terraces from each of main discovery trails. However, the designers had to balance this benefit against a potentially unwelcome heat load. "In principle, the buildings has a minmum number of windows, but they are strategically located." explains Arun Sane, the design arhitect for the project and a Principal with Robbie Sane Architects.

A 10-kilowatt wind turbine behind the building produces about 16% of the electricity the new wing uses and is also connected to a meteorological station where the wind speed, direction and temperature are monitored. "Our primary interest is in training students how to site windmills", Madder says.
Other envisioned, but still unrealized components also have dual energy efficiency and teaching purposes. A planned green roof will capture rainfall and help manage storm water runoff, insulate and reduce cooling costs in the summer, and serve as a research station for developing skills and further advancing green roof technology. Another section of the roof has been built at a 45-degree angle to the sun to accommodate solar water heaters or photovoltaic cells. A hot water loop that carries excess heat outside to prevent the wastewater treatment centre's wetlands from freezing coould also be extended to a neighbouring building. "This is almost like a district heating system", Sane notes.

For now, budgetary constraints have postponed these additions. The green roof's projected eight-year payback is currently beyond what even a public sector owner is likely to find economically workable.

Elsewhere, though, the five-year payback for the geothermal heating system would have found few takers among commercial sector investors who typically want to recoup their money in no less than three years. "Philosophically, Sandford Fleming wanted to make this building geothermal. The college even offers courses on geothermal so there was no question about it", Sane observes.

The design allows for the other features to be built later. If they find funds, they can get it [the wing] upgraded to an even better.