DCAM Sustainability Prototype

The Massachusetts Department of Capital Asset Management (DCAM) used the design and construction of the new Applied Technology Center at Cape Cod Community College in West Barnstable, MA as the basis for a sustainable design prototype for future statewide implementation. The facility was the first LEED certified state government building and earned the DCAM programming study award. The Applied Technology Building is a 40,000 square foot faciilty budgeted at $8 million that includes a new laboratory, offices and classroom space.

The facility has numerous cutting-edge sustainable design features that conserve resources. Site design, daylighting, renewable energy usage, water conservation, and recycled materials have been included in the development, resulting in a LEED Gold certification. While these green features in and around the building cost about 7% more than conventional construction techniques, the cost is estimated to be recouped within four or five years.

The facility features renewable energy technologies that result in 35% less energy usage and 85% reduction in water consumption compared with a traditional facility:

• 122 photovoltaic panels located on the roof and above the windows of the building that generate 15% of the building's power needs.
• 100% of the additional power the school needs to purchase for the building will come from a renewable energy source for at least two years.
• A 8,000 gallon tank located in the basement collects rainwater used in toilets to reduce groundwater usage by 60%.
• Drought-resistant plant species, reuse irrigation system, waterless urinals, and low-flow toilets.