BCC CASE STUDY: ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Location
Pittsburgh, PA

History of Sustainability
In early 2008, the Pittsburgh Opera’s lease came to an end and the organization decided that purchasing a building would be a worthwhile investment. In April of 2008, the Opera purchased the original Westinghouse Airbrake Factory, which had been constructed in 1869 and 1870, and began renovations on the building. The Opera appreciated the historic value of the building and planned to keep as many of the original features as possible. In mid-2008, a few months after starting renovations, the Pittsburgh Opera was approached by the Heinz Endowments with the idea of pursuing LEED-EB certification for the building. The Opera saw this as tremendous opportunity and began modifying its renovation plans to meet LEED standards.

Approach - "An Investment In Quality"
The Pittsburgh Opera knew that making its building a Leader in Energy and Environmental
Design would be good for the community, the environment, and its funders, but more importantly, the Opera saw LEED certification as a valuable investment in its business and its employees. The Opera recognized that LEED actions not only make buildings more energy-efficient and eco-friendly, but also improve air quality, water quality, and temperature control and promote a healthier atmosphere. All of these aspects create a more comfortable experience for audiences and help ensure the health and well-being of the Opera’s performers. This can translate into revenue for the Opera by improving the experience of attendees and avoiding the steep costs of flying in last-minute replacements for sick actors.

In order to achieve these desired benefits, the Pittsburgh Opera had to implement a series of actions and renovations from the LEED checklist. Insulation was installed in order to increase the energy efficiency and temperature control aspects of the building. The Opera also made sure that its cleaning supplies were “green”—green cleaning supplies are better for the environment and less harsh on users as compared to conventional cleaning supplies. Additionally, the Opera was able to complete one interesting item on the LEED checklist: covered parking. Covered parking shields the Opera’s performers from wind and rain and reduces the time they spend outside in cold weather, which improves the performers’ chances of remaining healthy.

Since the completion of these changes, the Pittsburgh Opera has received rave reviews from event attendees, local artists and performers who travel around the world. The Opera is still in the process of qualifying for LEED Certification. Next, it plans to upgrade the building’s mechanics and work on educating employees on sustainability. The Pittsburgh Opera is currently on track to earn a LEED Silver rating and become the first LEED Certified Opera building.

Unique Projects

• Recently partnered with Viridian Energy, an energy company that provides alternative energy supply options to local utilities. Now, when homeowners switch to Viridian Energy $2 will be donated to the Pittsburgh Opera.
  
• A Green Rental Option – The Opera makes its space available for rental when it is not in use for rehearsal or performances. Inspired by the LEED point system, the Opera awards points for various green actions you can take for your event. If you earn 12 of the possible 15 points you are eligible to be listed as a Green Event and receive a 10% discount off the rental fee.

Recommendations

• Insulation – In Pittsburgh, extreme temperatures are common in both the summer and the winter. One of the cheapest, easiest, and fastest ways to keep your facility at a comfortable temperature is to strategically insulate your building.
  
• Look out for the wellness of your employees – Employees are your greatest asset; keeping them healthy and providing them with a quality workspace will give them the ability to give you their best performances.

Data

• 25% water usage reduction due to low-flow water fixtures and fittings.
  
• 21% more energy-efficient than comparable national averages.
  
• Implemented a series of 16 low- or no-cost operational improvements, such as occupancy sensors and high-efficiency lighting, saving $1,000 a year in energy costs.
  
• Purchases 90+% sustainable office supplies and green cleaning supplies by budget.
  
• Recycles over 50% of ongoing consumables and 89% of durable goods.

Bottom Line
Sustainability is an investment in your business and your product.