Jun 4 2009
Blach Construction was recently selected by the Orchard School District to provide program management and preconstruction services for the installation of campus-wide energy management and efficiency upgrades.
The project is the first of several planned measures intended to leverage green technologies to reduce the district's carbon footprint while also decreasing operating costs. In addition, the school district will utilize the project as an educational opportunity for the students, staff and the community on the topics of sustainability and environmental responsibility. The new photovoltaic (PV) system will provide a dependable, renewable energy source for the entire campus and will also supplement utility power to the local community.
"As a teacher in the community college system, I'm excited to have the opportunity to educate students and the community about the many benefits associated with a sustainably-built campus," said Steve Murphy, PE, LEED(R) AP, Blach's director of MEP services and adjunct instructor for Cabrillo College in Aptos, CA.
The "grid-tied" PV system installation is expected to reduce the District's annual electrical costs by an estimated 40%, enabling the savings to be reallocated to educational spending and other expenses. Phase one of the project includes the installation of a nominal 240 kW photovoltaic (PV) system and other energy management upgrades. The PV installation and upgrade portion of the project is scheduled to begin construction in June 2009 and complete in August 2009.
The Orchard School District serves nearly 1,000 students and the communities of northern San Jose and Santa Clara County. The project is the latest collaboration between Blach and the District, which spans more than four years. Previously, Blach served as construction manager for the District's new theater arts and gymnasium complex.
Blach project manager Kim Scott, LEED AP, leads the team, which includes Joe Ascolese, LEED AP, project manager, Juan Barroso, chief estimator, Murphy and John Watson, electrical consultant.
Blach Construction Company has been building structures of enduring quality and value throughout northern and central California for nearly 40 years. The company's experience encompasses a broad cross-section of commercial, industrial and institutional building types, including education, healthcare, technology, life sciences, professional services and civic/community facilities. Blach is also a recognized leader in sustainable design and construction. The company is based in the Silicon Valley, with full-service regional offices located in Stockton and Monterey. For more information, please visit the company's web site at www.blach.com.