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Pro Tour: Net-Zero Retrofit of a 1940s Elementary School

Event Date
Venue Address

Manchester, CT 06042
United States

Event Cost
$35 Members/$45 Non-Members
CEU Information

AIA (pending)

This August, NESEA will head to Connecticut to offer a tour of a renovated and expanded 1940s elementary school that has been transformed into a modern, net-zero facility, complete with a 66 well geothermal HVAC system, to serve 400 students. 

Originally built in 1949, this project highlights the practical implementation of cutting-edge sustainable design principles in a real-world setting, while also showing the challenges and opportunities of transforming outdated school infrastructure into modern, net zero energy facilities. From its geothermal HVAC system and rooftop solar array to its interdisciplinary STEAM spaces and improved circulation design, the project offers a comprehensive look at innovative solutions that align with both environmental and educational goals.

Our event will begin with an opening workshop where the team will discuss the history, goals, and design and construction strategies. Attendees will then break into small groups to tour the school while hearing more from the interdisciplinary team of experts who made the building possible. After the tour, we’ll regroup for a reception and Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to chat with the day’s speakers and each other.


 

Schedule

12:30 PMDoors open, registration, networking and coffee
1:00 PMWelcome by NESEA
1:10 PMOverview of the project by the host
2:00 PMTour of project begins; attendees rotate through content-specific stations
3:45 PMGroup reconvenes and travels back to initial meeting point
4:00 PMReception with light refreshments
4:15 PMQ&A panel with members of project team
5:00 PMEvent concludes

If you have questions about this event, you can contact us via protours@nesea.org.
Interested in sponsoring this event? Learn more here.