Solar Power Cells, Hot Water, Energy, Collectors

The latest shade of green – zero energy use

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The renovation follows TD’s construction of a new branch in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., which it says is the first ever “net-zero energy” building of its size in the retail world. Developing this branch, which has been open for five months, was an easy decision, says Roger Johnson, TD’s senior vice-president of enterprise real estate, since the bank had sufficient land to put the solar array on, and the state gets plenty of sunshine.

Deciding whether to go green with the London branch proved slightly more complicated. It would require 4,360 square feet of solar panels. The building does not face south – the preferred orientation – so the panels would need to follow the sun to generate enough electricity.

TD also installed LED lighting and upgraded its control systems for heating and cooling. In addition, it will renovate the land surrounding the property into a “green energy park” that will include an amphitheater for community use and a solar electric car charging station for its customers.

Source: Globe and Mail