For Immediate Release
October 18, 2024

Suffolk County Community College’s Renewable Energy/STEM Center Wins Recognition for Sustainable Architecture at the 2024 Global Future Design Awards

Photo Caption: Suffolk County Community College’s Renewable Energy/STEM Center on the Michael J. Grant Campus in Brentwood Wins Gold Recognition for Sustainable Architecture at the 2024 Global Future Design Awards. For a hi-res image, visit: https://photos.app.goo.gl/g5ocdLYFJpaX9K2YA

The Renewable Energy/STEM Center is a compact, 24,000-square-foot building designed to maximize natural light and sustainability. Featuring a full roof of photovoltaic panels, insulating berms, geothermal wells and a central demonstration garden, it serves as a teaching facility for renewable energy systems and sustainability principles.

Prioritizing a reduced footprint and optimized roof geometry, the building adheres to Passivhaus standards with R-40 insulation and U-0.15 glazing for superior thermal performance. Strategic features, such as solar shades and daylight sensors, minimize artificial lighting needs, while a Variable Refrigerant Flow HVAC system paired with a Ground Source Heat Pump ensures energy-efficient ventilation.

As a “net zero” energy building tracking LEED Gold certification, the Center emphasizes indoor environmental quality and integrates passive and active building systems. It functions as a living laboratory, fostering innovation and collaboration, making it a vital resource for preparing students for future academic and career opportunities. The Renewable Energy/STEM Center is more than a building; it’s a creative hub for learning and exploration.

About Suffolk County Community College

 Suffolk County Community College is the largest, most comprehensive community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling more than 21,000 students in over 100 degree and certificate programs. With over 145,000 alumni, Suffolk County Community College is dedicated to meeting the demands of regional employers. The college has built an extensive track record of successfully training and educating its students through pathways from high school, to college, and into careers.

About AECOM

At AECOM, we believe infrastructure creates opportunity for everyone – uplifting communities, improving access and sustaining our planet. We’re committed to managing our business with the upmost responsibility and to always strive for better- be that reducing emissions, creating social value or diversifying our senior leadership and workforce.