With construction of SUNY Oswego's new ScienceCenter underway, the University is setting the bar high for sustainability initiatives taken by public institutions. The ScienceCenter is designed to be LEED Gold and incorporates the largest geothermal heating/cooling system in New York State. The system is composed of 240 holes, drilled to a depth of 499 feet where there is a constant temperature of 56 degrees Fahrenheit. Water will be pumped through the holes and heat exchangers will be affixed for summer cooling and winter heating.In addition to the geothermal system the ScienceCenter will have a terra cotta exterior material made from recycled materials, the exterior will utilize natural light, and alternative energies will be employed. The building will serve as a living laboratory where students can learn about the buildings technology and is even planned to house a planetarium.
SUNY Oswego's renovation is estimated to create 350 construction jobs over the next 5 years.
For more information visit http://www.oswego.edu/about/centers/obcr/campusrenovation.html.
