Glass Buildings: The Energy Challenge

Speakers: Nancy Anderson, Sallan Foundation; Chris Benedict, Architect; Scott Frank, Partner at Jaros, Baum and Bolles; Adrian Tuluca, Principal at Viridian Energy;

Moderator: Michael Bobker, CUNY Building Performance Lab

Sponsored by: Green Science and Environmental Systems, a PS&E program and Environmental Sciences Section

Media Partner: USGBC New York

The all-glass high-rise tower is an icon of contemporary urban architecture. Developers seem to love the all-glass building as a beautiful object and tenants seem to respond to the panoramic views they provide. From a sustainability perspective, critics have begun to raise concerns and generate cutting edge discussions about the energy performance of such buildings at exactly the time New York City is weighing greener Building Code recommendations. The March 3rd panel will examine the subject in detail, with experts considering

• The engineering calculations that quantify a design's projected energy performance
• Trade-offs between light, heat, and cooling loads
• What energy codes and standards presently apply and how recent high-glass designs have been able to meet them
• How new materials and designs can optimize the use of glass while meeting ratcheted down energy goals

As many of our older skyscrapers have their original glass curtain wall facades nearing end of life, these buildings will need to be "re-skinned." Thus these issues press not only on new construction but also on many existing buildings.

Introduction:

Nancy Anderson, PhD, Executive Director, Sallan Foundation

Moderator:

Michael Bobker, Director, CUNY Building Performance Lab

Panelists:

Scott Frank, PE, Partner at Jaros, Baum and Bolles, will address how glass buildings have met energy codes to date.

Adrian Tuluca, PE, Principal at Viridian Energy & Environmental, will present what we learn from energy modeling and how well modeling reflects reality.

Chris Benedict, RA, an architect experienced in designing energy-efficient building envelops, will discuss the potential of high-performance enclosure design.

Reception to Follow.