Designing a facility to shine as the first net zero energy building of its kind in the world
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory Research Support Facility (NREL RSF) transforms innovative research in renewable energy and energy efficiency into market-viable technologies and practices. Industry-leaders, they saw an opportunity to directly impact national energy security. How? By redefining the standard for commercial buildings in the world.
From its inception, the RSF was designed to be a world-changing building with the goal of creating the largest commercial net zero energy structure on the globe—and a blueprint for a net zero energy future. It’s meant to influence others in the building industry to pursue low energy and net zero energy performance. The RSF will do just that, as well as further NREL’s long-term mission of global sustainability.
Housing more than 1200 people, the RSF sets as an example for staff to learn from and work by. In addition to open office, semi-private, and some private offices, the facility includes a library, data center, lunch room, lobby, conference, and support spaces—all promoting well building features.
The award-winning Research Support Facility (RSF) is a showcase of how high-performance buildings can be aesthetically-appropriate at a competitive cost with limited risk. It serves as a model for cost-competitive, high energy performance commercial buildings for the nation’s design, construction, operation, and financing communities.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Awards
- AIA Committee on the Environment Top 10 Green Project Award
- National Design-build Institute of America Excellence in Design
- Article
- Looking back on the first large-scale net zero energy building
Porus Sam Antia , Principal, Buildings
I provide vision for the next generation of living and adaptive buildings, achieving harmony between the built environment and the natural world.
Rachel Bannon-Godfrey, Vice President, SDG Impact Leader
Sustainable design is a vague and undefined term, but that doesn’t mean our approach to it can be.
Peter Bright, Principal, Regional Sub-Sector Leader, Solar (Canada & Australia)
Outgoing, versatile, and energetic project management style maximizes efficiency, delivery, and quality.
Rachel Fitzgerald , Principal, Discipline Lead, Lighting
I love that my work blends science and technology with design and experience.
Jonathan Flager, Associate, Project Architect
Architecture is about people—it is important to plan and design spaces and environments for people to thrive and be inspired by.
Josh Gould, Senior Vice President, Buildings
I’m passionate about making a positive impact on the built environment and work with each client to capture the spirit of a place.
Mike Voll, Principal, Sector Lead Smart Technologies
You don’t have to dig deep in the earth to find the energy we need to survive. Blowing wind, flowing rivers and warming sun are easily accessible for those with the passion to harness them.
Eric Pearse, Associate
Every urban surface, no matter how small or overlooked, holds the potential to enhance our daily lives and create positive change.
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