News-Gazette highlights ECEB on becoming 21st LEED-certified project on campus and fourth to achieve platinum status

 The News-Gazette recently highlighted the $98 million Electrical and Computer Engineering Building (ECEB) for being the fourth project on campus to be awarded "platinum" certification under the LEED environmental rating system. ECEB is recognized in the article for becoming the 21st LEED-certified project on campus and the other three buildings designated with platinum status are the Business Instructional facility, the Lincoln Hall renovation, and Bousfield residence Hall.

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) system was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council to recognize buildings that "are designed, built, and operated for sustainability and quality of life. Specifically, the ECEB was cited for its "sustainable site development, construction and waste management; water savings; energy efficiency; materials selection, and indoor environmental quality." The building was designed to be a "net zero" energy user and boasts a $3 million rooftop solar array that generates renewable electricity for the building and campus power grid.

The ECEB features passive heating and cool features, a distinctive terra cotta exterior and sun shades, and a chilled-beam heating and cooling system. Furthermore, the solar panels on the roof began operating last spring, accounting for 25% of the building's electrical use.

"Illinois ECE serves as a prime example of how the work of innovative building projects can use local solutions to make a global impact on the environment," said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO of the U.S. Green Building Council per The News-Gazette.

Check out the article on The News-Gazette site.