Mar 12 2010
A new headquarters being planned by UniSource Energy Corporation and sister company UniSource Energy Services in downtown Tucson will have green features such as solar power and energy efficiency. The headquarters will also accommodate more number of its employees.
The nine-story energy-efficient building is expected to commence construction during later in 2010 and planned to be completed before 2011 end. The building will accommodate over 425 employees of Tucson Electric Power (TEP), a subsidiary of UniSource Energy. Currently, TEP is occupying a leased space that can accommodate only 85 employees.
Chairman, President and CEO of UniSource Energy and TEP, Paul Bonavia, said the company will be able to bring its staff together and other improvements in the working space will help the company to run its business more effectively and efficiently.
The building has been designed to provide maximum energy efficiency and will feature a photovoltaic solar array. UniSource Energy intends to secure LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for the new building to make sure it meets environmentally sensitive design and energy-efficient construction.
Bonavia said the new building demonstrates its commitment to environmental stewardship and energy efficiency. The green features in the building include high-efficiency glass cladding, HVAC units and energy-saving lights. The water requirements for landscaping will be met with recycled water and rainwater harvesting system.
A leading commercial real estate company in the nation, Ryan Companies will be developing the building. Design and build services of Ryan Companies along with subcontractors will develop the shell and interiors of the building. In the bidding for construction contracts, preference will be given to local companies.
Source: http://www.uns.com