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Economy and Business


Akron utility unveils green building

by WKSU's KAREN SCHAEFER


Reporter
Karen Schaefer
 
FirstEnergy today gave the media a tour of a new green building on its West Akron campus. Officials are hoping the three-story brick and glass structure will meet high standards for energy-efficient design. They say it's just part of the utility's commitment to the environment.
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FirstEnergy's new green IT building has more windows than walls
The glass wall of the atrium adds natural lighting and reduces the need for electricity
FirstEnergy spokesman Mark Durbin (R) stands with reporters in the atrium on a tour of the new building
On the ground floor, raised floors allow heat to flow underneath, eliminating ductwork.  They also act as conduits for wiring.  Recycled carpet squares make access and replacement in high traffic areas easy
Project manager Mike Molinski works for Vocon, the Cleveland architectural firm that designed the building
Recycled Ohio steel is used throughout the building, including the stairs
Molinski says when you see exposed pipes and ductwork in new or renovated older buildings, it's a good sign.  He says the greenest materials are the ones you don't use - like drop ceilings
This second floor conference room is one of several that can open out into one larger space.  The doors use compressed straw instead of wood
From above the building's atrium is airy and filled with natural light
FirstEnergy has several rooms where video conferencing will be an easy, energy-saving choice for meetings
Providing temporary work spaces to part-time workers and visitors - called hoteling - is another way to save on building costs
Recycled steel sunshades are mounted over windows to reduce glare and heat, saving on cooling costs
Native plant landscaping fed by rainwater that flows off the roof will help to reduce water usage by 30-percent
Preferred parking for low-emmission, high-efficiency vehicles is one way FirstEnergy hopes to nudge employees toward greener lifestyles
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