Complimentary Energy Design Assistance

Receive a complimentary custom decarbonization analysis to identify and evaluate opportunities.

After the discovery call, Willdan’s decarbonization analyst will create a customized energy decarbonization report. This report includes recommended strategies tailored to your project goals and budget. This comparative analysis includes multiple mechanical, lighting, and envelope systems. The decarbonization simulation models will be tailored to your specific parameters. These models provide a clear picture of which measures offer the best return on investment.

Photo credit: Jeff Durkin, Borrego Springs Library

Energy Design in Action

The new public library and community room in the small desert community of Borrego Springs, about 40 miles south of Palm Springs, responds to the community’s deep appreciation for the distinctive ecosystem with a highly energy-efficient design.

The sustainable structure not only withstands the harsh desert climate but also allows visitors to absorb and immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty. The building features many energy saving principles, including solar shading, significant daylight harvesting and an energy-efficient and durable building envelope.

Planning and Design Approach

During the ten-month design phase, Roesling Nakamura Terada Architects (RNT) worked with the community, encouraging participation and incorporating input early and throughout the process. The community comprises a diverse population, including seasonal and year-round residents living in semi-rural to rural lands. Community involvement during design benefits public building projects because it leads to better-designed projects and improves the match between community needs and the result.

Photo credit: Jeff Durkin, Borrego Springs Library

Energy Modeling

RNT developed a physical model and two digital models to study different elements of the building. RNT and energy consultant Stok created an energy model, which allowed them to plan and track various stages in the building’s lifecycle. This led to the decision to include a second corten steel skin on the building’s south side, which turns rust red as it weathers, further blending into the landscape.

Energy modeling is essential for optimizing sustainable design measures, but physical models can provide insights that digital models can’t. On top of energy simulation modeling, the team used an on-site physical model to examine late-afternoon solar radiation patterns close to the summer solstice. The study showed RNT just how far the sun reached around the north side of the building, highlighting the need to reconsider façade shading treatments at the northwest corner curtain wall.

Time for Action

Schedule a meeting with Tina to receive free technical assistance and analyze your savings and incentives potential.