The Overbrook School for the Blind M. Christine Murphy Horticulture and Education Center is a 2000 sf net-zero-energy greenhouse and classroom. As the LEED Consultant and Building Enclosure Commissioning Agent, Re:Vision brings a holistic approach to the project. The unique requirements of a greenhouse make enclosure commissioning valuable in reducing water and energy demands. To further offset those loads, rainwater harvesting supplies some of the high water demand. A campus solar PV array has earmarked enough production to supply the greenhouse’s annual energy usage.

It is anticipated that the building will have one full time Horticultural Therapist. Students at the Overbrook School for the Blind range in age from 3-21 years with a wide range of mental and physical abilities. The expectation is to have classes of 5-6 students plus aides rotating to the greenhouse on a pre-determined schedule throughout the day/week. Total daily visitors are expected to average between 40-50 students and staff.

Estimated Savings

Four-button digital dimmer switches are provided in Classroom 101. A single pole switch is provided in Mech/Storage 100. Vacancy sensors are provided in the Greenhouse area. All interior and exterior lighting fixtures are LED.

◆ Actual energy use during performance period: 25,449 kWh

◆ Actual energy produced during performance period: 48,967 kWh

◆ Net Energy Use: -23,518 kWh

◆ EUI: 41.55 kBTU/sf/yr