Wake Tech’s new East Campus runs on sustainable energy
The recently completed Central Energy Plant (CEP) at Wake Tech Community College’s new East Campus delivers both a groundbreaking sustainable energy solution, as well as an immersive learning environment for students. The 15,700 square-foot CEP leverages sustainable energy to heat and cool the entire East Campus. In doing so, it achieves exceptional energy savings and efficiency for the college system.
The $54 million, single-story facility delivered by our USA Building team builds on Wake Tech’s growing reputation as a leader in sustainable construction within higher education. In 2023, Wake Tech received the City of Raleigh Climate Action Award for the CEP, a testament to its dedication to creating healthy and sustainable buildings.
The facility also holds a Four Green Globes® certification, the highest awarded by the Green Building Initiative, and is the first Four Green Globes project in North Carolina.
At its core, the CEP stands out for its use of geothermal energy and solar power. Featuring 297 wells situated 500 feet deep, and approximately 56 miles worth of vertical piping, the geothermal well field is expected to use one-third less energy than traditional boiler/chiller setups.
The hot water temperature for the building’s mechanical system runs at a maximum of 105 degrees, instead of the standard 120+ degrees, to limit the energy required to heat the hot water for the system.
Overall, the CEP’s geothermal system is anticipated to emit 50% less carbon, fueling Wake Tech and Skanska’s continued focus on leading the way toward carbon neutrality.
“Our team was honored to partner with an owner that shares our core values and carries a vision for sustainability associated with reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions,” says Project Director Jason Tobias.
Advanced solar technology integrated throughout the CEP converts sunlight into electricity at scale. On the roof of the CEP are 283 high-efficiency solar panels capable of producing 160,956 kilowatt hours per year, enough to power 15 homes annually.
Across the site, 132 individually powered and programmable solar light poles, and electric vehicle charging stations installed throughout, further amplify energy savings.
The geothermal energy plant uses low-volatile organic compound paint, sealers and cleaning products, making the surrounding air healthier to breathe.
“The building also features carbon cure concrete, high solar roof reflectance, multiple bio-ponds and permeable paver systems,” says Jason.
The CEP is as much a win for the environment as it is for Wake Tech students who will get to learn within its walls. The community college plans to leverage the CEP to offer courses in green technology, and the site will serve as a Renewable Energy Training Center that supports training through WakeWorks® Apprenticeship.
An electric vehicle teaching lab in the building will equip students to “safely install and repair charging stations supporting the electric vehicle industry."
“The CEP was designed and built with the student in mind,” says Jason. “Going forward, it will not only act as the heart of the campus, but will also provide students with opportunities to learn how a central energy plant operates.”
“All of the systems within the CEP are color coded to help students understand visually how each system is routed, and working in tandem with the other systems,” continues Jason. “Additionally, there is a classroom built within the administrative side of the CEP, with a large window that looks into the plant, giving students and teachers a safe and quiet place to discuss the systems and how they operate.”