April 5, 2013 – A zero net energy (ZNE) building is one that is self-sustainable: achieved by reducing the structure’s energy demand through energy-efficient building measures while producing renewable energy onsite. And Northern California’s NECA – IBEW team say they have met the challenge.

“New technologies, advanced building designs and innovative construction methods were used to achieve a dramatic and unprecedented 75% reduction in energy use when compared to similar existing commercial buildings in the country,” said Darlene R. Besst, NorCal’s director of business development/government affairs.

The soon-to-be home of IBEW Local 595 and the Northern California Chapter, NECA Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) will open May 30 in San Leandro with a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony. NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) says the building will be one of only a handful of U.S. Department of Energy-designated ZNE buildings in the country, and is the first to achieve this status by retrofitting an existing commercial building (former data centre).

“Heralded as a game changer for energy conservation and renewable energy, the ZNE Centre is the realization of our collective vision for a more sustainable world where young men and women will be trained for good-paying jobs and new-economy careers,” Besst added.

The Zero Net Energy Centre will showcase the NECA-IBEW commitment to energy conservation and, say the partners, thereby helping commercial enterprises make the right choice when acquiring electrical contracting services.

A dedicated website at znecenter.org provides detailed information about why and how this high-profile project was accomplished. Meantime, you are invited to attend the Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting ceremony at 14600 Catalina Street, San Leandro, Calif., May 30 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Please RSVP to darleneb@norcalneca.org .