MNN - Mother Nature Network

The 2030 Challenge is designed to address the fact that commercial buildings are one of the largest energy consuming segments in the world.  In order to counter the impact that these buildings have, the 2030 Challenge is working with architects and builders around the world to meet several goals.  The ultimate goal is for all new buildings and major renovation projects to be carbon-neutral by 2030.  

 

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Committee on the Environment (COTE) recognized the design firm of Perkins+Will last week as part of the AIA’s Top 10 Green Projects of 2009 list.  Perkins+Will has two projects on the top ten list – the Great River Energy Headquarters in Maple Grove, Minnesota and Synergy at Dockside Green in Victoria, British Columbia.

 

Although the company has already received numerous commendations for their green design, they have launched a new tool to help their designers in designing buildings that will meet the goals set forth by the 2030 Challenge - the 2030 e2 Energy Estimating Tool.

“2030 e2 allows users to set target goals for four key areas: energy efficiency, on-site and grid-supplied renewable energy, plus green power offsets (RECs) when designing new buildings or retrofitting existing buildings. In response to the urgency of global climate change Perkins+Will has decided to make the beta tool publicly available.”  Source: Perkins+Will Press Release

If you’re in the green design industry, now is your chance to use this new tool as well as provide feedback to fine tune the tool for future users.  The free online tool is available on the Perkins+Will website.