by Brianna Crandall — June 8, 2016 — The University of the West Indies (UWI) has just begun the construction of the Caribbean’s first Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB). As a prototype for the construction of similar structures in the region, the building will demonstrate emerging and best practices in the built environment relating to energy efficiency, renewable energy and environmental design.
Ground was broken in May for the approximately J$61.48 million (US$500,000) project, which will be situated along Gibraltar Way on the Mona campus. The facility, to be completed by December, is expected to influence the implementation of regulatory tools, as well as transform building policies and practices.
As a prototype, the building will demonstrate emerging and best practices in the built environment relating to energy efficiency, renewable energy and environmental design.
The project is being implemented by UWI’s Institute for Sustainable Development, with technical assistance from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and funding from the Global Environment Facility.
A Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) produces enough renewable energy to meet its own annual energy consumption requirements, thereby reducing the use of non-renewable energy in the building sector, according to the school.
The long-term benefits are said to be lower environmental impact and operating and maintenance costs, better resiliency to power outages and natural disasters, and improved energy security.
The Jamaican Minister of Energy, Science and Technology, Dr. the Hon. Andrew Wheatley, in an address at the groundbreaking ceremony, said the adaptation and implementation of NZEBs will go a far way in reducing the country’s carbon footprint, ensuring future utility cost savings, and increasing worker productivity and comfort.
The 2,300-square foot NZEB will include a center for research on renewable energy, as well as conference facilities.
Minister Wheatley said the innovation is in keeping with Government’s strategy to revolutionize the country’s energy supply, power generation, transmission, distribution and consumption habits. He encouraged more institutions to implement similar projects and conduct research to ensure energy sustainability.
Senior Programme Manager for the Energy, Climate and Technology Branch of UNEP, Kenya, Geordie Colville said the building is designed to maximize the use of natural sunlight for energy, while reducing the need for air-conditioning and artificial lighting.
The structure is expected to reduce energy consumption by 40 percent compared to a non-zero net energy building. Excess power generated will be sold to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPSCo) under a net billing arrangement.
The building is also to be utilized as an emergency shelter, as it will be designed to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes, and harvest storm, drainage and waste water. It is expected to save up to 30 percent in water consumption under everyday conditions.
