Energy efficiency was a top priority in design of Loras College’s new Academic Resource Center. The 90,000 SF building, which serves as the campus library, includes instructional, writing and learning labs, and multimedia classrooms. It also houses historic books for the City and includes a Barnes & Noble bookstore for the public to access.
As the mechanical and electrical engineer, KJWW was involved early in the planning and design process to evaluate the cost effectiveness of energy-saving technologies. KJWW prepared a utility study that calculated savings and worked with the local utility company to obtain energy rebates for the College.
The building features a geothermal well system that eliminates the need for a cooling tower, chemical treatment and maintenance, and reduces electrical consumption due to low condenser water temperatures provided for the chiller. The well system uses variable frequency drives to reduce electrical consumption while the chiller is a dual compressor design for optimal redundancy and energy efficiency. A decoupled energy recovery ventilation system and VAV air-handling units further enhance the energy reductions.
Day lighting techniques and occupancy sensor controls were utilized throughout the building and stack areas to minimize energy consumption. A preaction fire protection system was utilized for critical archive and rare book areas to eliminate accidental sprinkler damage. A preaction fire protection system was utilized for critical archive and rare book areas to eliminate accidental sprinkler damage. Design provided adequate humidity control, yet eliminated condensate on the extensive perimeter glass.