Sustainability tops the syllabus at net-zero energy school in Texas

Texas-based firm Corgan designed the 152,200-sf Lady Bird Johnson Middle School in Irving, Texas, with the goal of creating the largest net-zero educational facility in the nation, and the first in the state. Energy-reducing strategies, including a geothermal HVAC system, passive solar interior daylighting, and a high-efficiency kitchen, will help the facility use 50% less energy than a standard school. On-site solar panels and wind turbines will provide the school’s energy needs, and help its 900 students in grades six through eight learn about energy as part of their new science curriculum. Local firm Charter Builders and California-based IEG Engineers complete the Building Team.