Net Zero Design for Schools to Combat Rising Energy Costs

September 13, 2023 - In an article published 8/14 in School Construction News, Ryan Strandquest, LEED AP, President of Matern Professional Engineering,  writes how, despite enjoying a great deal of sun, Florida currently produces only 6% of its energy from renewable sources. Despite such a paltry sum, Florida ranks fourth among all states in terms of solar and renewable energy production. Ryan advises that school construction can move toward net zero by taking advantage of renewable energy incentives in a path that is economically viable.   

“Engineers must think creatively about ways to solve this problem because rebuilding or remodeling a facility is often not in the cards,” writes Ryan. “Wind and solar can help offset the loss of climate control by providing needed power to run HVAC systems if schools are in areas to take advantage of the fuel these require, wind and sunlight.”

Ryan says that economic incentives will help school construction remain at the forefront of sustainability. Creative solutions from designers and engineers offer solutions to this problem that will pay dividends now and long into the future. 

“While it is the right thing to do for the future of our schools, our children, and their children, the investment must make sound economic sense for schools to be willing to rebuild or retrofit facilities,” he said.

Read the story in full; click here.