AASHE Campus Sustainability Hub

Join AASHE and Second Nature for an in-depth look under the hood of the University of Chicago’s innovative procurement approach to establish a measurable energy performance requirement in their new construction RFP and contract. In partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Renewable Energy Lab and AASHE member Seventhwave, the University of Chicago has embraced this new strategy in its sustainability and facilities standards and is piloting it in two new construction projects—a 395,000 ft2 residence hall and a 100,000 ft2 speaking forum facility. Success stories and lessons learned from each project will be shared.

Owners expect the energy performance of new construction or major renovation projects will meet or exceed expectations in design. Unfortunately, that often isn't the case and owners are left with higher than expected utility costs, less savings, and increased operations and maintenance expenses. We will share how the University is helping meet campus-wide energy reduction goals by leveraging the procurement approach to put a cap on the amount of energy a new building uses. The approach has also proved to be instrumental in helping the University achieve better alignment around planning, design and operations.

You will also learn about a U.S. Department of Energy grant initiative, Accelerate Performance, to scale this procurement approach across the country. The grant supports owners in setting energy performance goals and verifying that the contract requirement is met.

• Mike Stopka - Director, Office of Sustainability | University of Chicago
• Adam McMillen - Director of Energy Consulting | Seventhwave

• Link: ASHRAE Journal article entitled "Procurement Path for Energy-Efficient Buildings"
• Link: Architect magazine video about University of Chicago's Campus North Residence Hall
• Link: Accelerate Performance
• Link: Webinar Recording
• File: Presentation Slides