Summary
The project team utilized the NEO Net Energy Optimizer® energy analysis tool in order to establish the energy efficiency criteria for the proposed design using Option 1: Whole Building Energy Simulation under the LEED Energy and Atmosphere EAc2 Minimum Energy Performance credit. The project was awarded 16 Points under EAc2 and achieved LEED Silver certification.
The project includes an energy efficient geothermal system that serves water to air heat pumps and an energy recovery system. In addition to a high efficiency HVAC system the project team also incorporated an increased thermal resistance in the roof and walls paired with a high-performance vision and Kalwall fenestration system that allowed for a significant amount of natural daylighting. With daylight harvesting controls, occupancy sensors, and reduced lighting power densities, the energy model was able to quantify that these measures collectively saved over $13,000 per year in annual energy costs.
Key Strategies and Results
- High efficiency geothermal heat pumps with an (ton weighted) efficiency of 21.1 EER and 4.1 COP, resulting in over 100,000 kWh of modeled savings.
- Implemented a total heat recovery system with a 74% sensible and 70% latent effectiveness to recycle waste heat from the exhaust air stream.
- High performance building envelope, lighting controls, and lighting design resulting in 25% of the modeled savings.
Project Background
Miron entered the Cedar Rapids market in 2003 as a general contractor for the $7.8 million Paramount Theatre renovation and expansion project, renting a small office space in a strip mall. Constructed to better serve the organization’s Iowa clients, the new office not only replaces the outgrown space, but demonstrates Miron’s commitment to continue to grow its presence within the Cedar Rapids community we call home.
In a developing business/industrial park in Cedar Rapids, Miron was able to consolidate their field, yard, and warehouse operations with their professional construction management services in this new facility on 5.27 acres, increasing operational efficiencies and allowing easier access to project sites. Additionally, the visible presence along the I-380 corridor helps to strengthen existing relationships and supports Miron’s desire to be an active part of the Cedar Rapids Community.
About Miron Construction CO., Inc.
Miron Construction Co., Inc. is a forward thinking, fast-growing private company headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with regional offices in Madison, Wausau, Milwaukee, Eau Claire, Wisconsin and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Miron has been providing professional construction services to clients throughout the Midwest, with an expanded geographic reach across the United States since 1918, and is listed among the top general contractors in the United States by the Engineering News Record. For more information, please visit http://www.miron-construction.com.