Energy Efficiency

Since 2010, Washington University has increased its square footage by 15% while cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 22%. Reductions in building energy use from energy efficiency measures and retro-commissioning offset the impact of growth in square footage.  

Energy Performance:

Washington University follows an aggressive energy use intensity target for each project to surpass the ASHRAE 90.1-2010 baseline building energy standard. Since 2015, the standard for Wash U projects has been a LEED Silver minimum and 30% greater than ASHRAE 90.1-2010 energy standard. In that time, out of 8 projects, we have achieved 7 projects that have exceeded the LEED Silver minimum requirement, 5 projects that meet and 1 project that exceeded the enhanced ASHRAE requirement.

Energy improvements have been made to existing buildings throughout campus using data from extensive metering and monitoring. Retrofitting by adding more insulation and/or adding high performance window glazing has allowed the university to make substantial incremental improvements to existing building performance.

Our projects have always prioritized the utilization of natural daylight in order to minimize energy usage and provide occupant comfort. By optimizing glazing to bring in natural light, through the thoughtful design of energy efficient windows and skylights, we have accomplished reduced solar heat gain and glare while using less artificial lighting.

Washington University uses the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager to benchmark energy usage for buildings on campus.