The NC Solar Center provides commercial and institutional design review services for contractors, architects, engineers, owners and others involved in the design of commercial and institutional buildings located in North Carolina. The main goals of these reviews are:
To provide hands-on-training in the area of Sustainable Design to professionals in the construction industry who will replicate the knowledge gained in future buildings
To increase awareness of Sustainable Design Principles including energy efficiency, passive solar, active solar, healthy construction, low maintenance and thoughtful resource use of water, land and materials
To encourage the inclusion of passive and active Sustainable Design Principles in institutional buildings
The content of these reviews is determined by the needs of the professional or building owner and may include guidance concerning:
Orientation and taking advantage of the sun
Energy efficiency in site design, building design, materials, air sealing, heating and cooling systems, appliances, lighting, etc.
Preliminary energy modeling analysis for focus of monetary expenditure
Photovoltaic (solar electric) design for emergency and back-up systems
Solar hot water system design for both domestic and space heating purposes
Sustainable building principals in materials, indoor air quality, site selection , water use, maintenance, etc.
Daylighting referrals and preliminary design considerations
Mechanical, electrical, water, energy rater and other professional references
Qualified staff can help you make your client’s next building more energy and resource efficient in any stage of the development of your building design. Please call the Solar Center as early in the design process as possible so we can help you ascertain the best time to meet your specific needs. From Programming to Construction Documents, the Center’s Design Review staff looks forward to helping you make your move into the world of sustainable design!
