Page 221 - Solar Power in Building Design The Engineer's Complete Design Resource

TRICOM OFFICE BUILDING 191

The landscape is composed of drought-tolerant plants eliminating the need for a
permanent irrigation system and thus conserving local and regional potable water
resources. Significant water savings are realized by faucet aerators and dual-flush and
low-gallons-per-flush (GPF) toilets.
A 31-kW roof-mount photovoltaic solar power cogeneration system, installed by
Solar Webb Inc., provides over 50 percent of the building’s demand for electric energy.
The building construction includes efficient lighting controls, increased insulation,
dual-glazed windows, and Energy Star–rated appliances that reduce energy consump-
tion. Figure 7.4 shows the roof-mount solar PV system.
Approximately 80 percent of the building material, such as concrete blocks, the
rebar, and the plants were manufactured or harvested locally, thereby minimizing the
environmental pollution impacts that result from transportation.
In various areas of the building flooring, the cover is made from raw, renewable
materials such as linseed oil and jute. The ceiling tiles are also made from renewable
materials such as cork. Reused material consisted of marble and doors from hotels,
used tiles from showcase houses, and lighting fixtures that augment the architectural
character.
The carpet used is made of 50 percent recycled content, the ceiling tiles are made
from 75 percent recycled content, and the aluminum building signage is made from
94 percent recycled content. Figure 7.5 shows the inverter system assembly.
To enhance environmental air quality, all adhesives, sealants, paints, and carpet
systems contain little or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which makes the
project comply with the most rigorous requirements for indoor air quality. Operable

Figure 7.4 TriCom roof-mounted solar power cogeneration system.
Photograph courtesy of Solar Integrated Technologies, Los Angeles, CA.