Maryland Net Zero Energy Schools Program

Columbia and Baltimore, MD

Maryland Net Zero Energy Schools Program

Scope of Services
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Engineering Design Review
 

The Maryland Net Zero Energy Schools Program was launched to support the construction of three Net Zero Energy schools in Maryland in the Baltimore Gas and Electric service territory. The program is a partnership between the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) and the Public School Construction Program (PSCP) in conjunction with participating county school districts. Several architecture and engineering firms were contracted to design the schools, provide Net Zero Energy building support, and review and validate the energy efficiency design components.

2RW Project Case Study Main Image
Services

Under this program, 2RW provided peer review services for the MEP design of three schools: Wilde Lake Middle School,  Holabird Academy Elementary/Middle School, and Graceland Park – O’Donnell Elementary/Middle School. 2RW conducted design reviews for schematic, detailed, and construction design phases. These reviews provided guidance on adjustments and strategies that would ensure the schools achieved both the annual energy consumption goal of less than 25 kBtu/SF and Net Zero Energy status.

Results
  • Wilde Lake Middle School became Maryland’s first Net Zero Energy school with its efficient design and solar photovoltaic (PV) system. It is expected to consume just 24.5 kBtu/sf of energy per year.
  • The two elementary/middle schools—Holabird Academy and Graceland Park – O’Donnell—are state-of-the-art learning environments that replace two existing pre-K-8 schools. They are Baltimore City Public Schools’ first Net Zero Energy facilities.
  • These prototype schools will demonstrate Baltimore’s focus on project-based learning, sustainability, and energy-conscious design for urban schools in urban environments.
Scope of Services
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Engineering Design Review
 

OWNER: Maryland Energy Administration (MEA)

TIMEFRAME: 2013 – 2014

SIZE: Varies

COST: $9 million

ESTIMATED ENERGY SAVINGS: Varies


Highlights

Systems Reviewed:

  • Building envelope and orientation
  • HVAC design and equipment specifications
  • Geothermal heating system design
  • PV system design and specifications
  • Automation systems
  • Daylighting and shading strategies
  • Lighting and controls
  • Appliances and plumbing fixture selections

Certifications
Net Zero Energy School