Provide a path to ZNE performance through energy modeling, measurement and verification, and occupant training on a rapid design-build schedule while navigating the very technical, controlled, and energy-intensive conditions required of an archive—including a narrow range of temperature, humidity, and pollutant conditions.
The East County Office and Archives is the first Zero Energy archive facility in the US certified by the International Living Future Institute and achieved its targeted LEED v4 Gold certification. Combining several governmental and administrative departments, the new building is a valuable public resource and amenity for the City of Santee and a testament to the County of San Diego’s commitment to a high performance real estate portfolio for the benefit of its residents.
Large windows capture daylight while a large overhanging south roof controls glare and excess heat gain. There’s a high degree of control over lighting and plug loads through daylight sensors, LED fixtures, and occupancy sensors, which helps lower the overall impact of small loads at scale. Stok implemented a high-efficiency variable refrigerant flow system (VRF) to heat and cool the building, an automation system displays how the building is performing in real time and provides opportunity to fine-tune for optimal performance throughout the building’s life span.
Stok provided measurement and verification services until the facility’s ZNE performance was verified. Stok is also providing training for building occupants to understand how the building operates and the intent behind the ambitious performance targets, serving as an opportunity for improved engagement and feedback for County employees.
For its exceptional performance, the East County Office and Archives received the 2020 Government/ Public Building Award of Merit from Engineering News Record California. The project also received a 2020 Orchid Award for Architecture from the San Diego Architectural Foundation.
Photo Credit: Chipper Hatter
