IN THE NEWS
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Currently, there is an ever increasing amount of attention given towards optimizing energy performance in new building construction to reduce the economic impact associated with excessive energy use. This increased attention has led to new technologies and design strategies in the building industry to help offset energy costs. What is lacking is an understanding of how implementing these new technologies and strategies impact the total cost of ownership for a building. In some cases, what may contribute to increased energy efficiency may cost the owner more money in the end.
In our session, we will evaluate the initial cost and total cost of ownership for several building orientations, envelopes, and building mechanical and electrical systems. We will use the Building Performance Method in Appendix G of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 to create a baseline energy model appropriate for the Midwest region (weather, utility rates, etc.) and evaluate the impact of using different design strategies and technologies. The goal of this session is to provide attendees with a guide on how to pick the "low hanging fruit" regarding design decisions while evaluating initial costs versus the total cost of ownership, thus maximizing return on investment.
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Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri
The Clark Enersen Partners Science & Research Design Group leaders attended the June 17th dedication of the Christopher S. Bond Learning Center; a new S&RDG-designed facility established to improve and promote agricultural learning at Missouri State University. The Bond Learning Center stands as the University's latest capital improvement project to further the Darr Agricultural Center's mission.
Attendees at the event included Senator Kit Bond; representatives from the offices of Senator Roy Blunt, Senator Claire McCaskill, Congressman Billy Long and Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson, Springfield, Greene County and University officials; and, of course, Project Manager Rick Wise and Project Architect Jeff Biernbaum of The Clark Enersen Partners Science & Research Design Group.
The Bond Learning Center houses a shared research laboratory, offices, classrooms, and a large multi-purpose room suitable for meetings, banquets, and other functions. It also includes features like a livestock chute that allows professors to bring large animals into the auditorium for lectures.
The Bond Learning Center was completed at a total cost of $6.8 million through a combination of university resources, private gifts, and federal funds. The Missouri Congressional delegation, led by Senator Bond, successfully pursued federal support of the Darr Agricultural Center to enhance the state's agricultural industry.
