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RNL and Haselden were selected for this expansion to the recently completed Research Support Facility (RSF). This same team also designed and constructed the original RSF which is a commercial prototype for high-performance, large-scale office buildings. The RSF II serves as a complement to the LEED Platinum, net-zero energy design of the original RSF building. It is scheduled for completion in October 2011 and will offer space for 500 additional NREL and DOE staff.

Consistent with the original building, the four-story expansion features a 60-foot wide office space that allows for deep penetration of natural daylight and cross ventilation – primary drivers in energy conservation. Many of the sustainable features used in the original structure are returning with marked improvements, due to technological advances. These include the following:

• 6% more efficient roof-top photovoltaic panels

• Improved thermal performance; reduced thermal bridging throughout the new wing

• Improved window systems; upgraded lighting control systems

• Increased flexibility in mechanical systems integration