The CSL is expected to achieve net-zero energy by the end of the year, generating more power than it consumes with several forms of renewable energy, including a vertical axis wind turbine, 125 kW photovoltaic solar panels, 14 geothermal wells, as well as passive cooling, heating and lighting. The former brownfield site now brims with native plants and five rain gardens, a rainwater harvesting lagoon and constructed wetlands which treat all storm and sanitary water on the property.
According to Jason F. McLennan, CEO of the International Living Future Institute, “Phipps’ Living Building is one of the most important projects of its kind in the world, demonstrating to the design community and thousands of annual visitors a profound new paradigm for responsible design and construction.”