The iconic Sears Tower in Chicago is set to receive a $350 million green renovation. Wind turbines, roof gardens and solar panels are anticipated to reduce the tower’s electricity use by 80 percent and save 24 million gallons of water a year, according to building owners and architects. There are also plans to add a 50-story privately funded luxury hotel with its own green components next to the skyscraper in 3 1/2 to 5 years.
The project includes the installation of solar panels on the tower’s 90th floor roof to heat water used in the building. Different types of wind turbines will also be positioned on the tower’s tiered roofs and tested for efficiency.
“This endeavor is incredibly important as a role model for others to follow,” architect Adrian Smith said. “We see this as a groundbreaking opportunity.”
Other changes to the 110-story skyscraper, the tallest building in the United States, include improvements to the 16,000 window pieces along the outside of the tower to save heating energy; mechanical system upgrades; updates to the building’s 104 elevators; an advanced lighting control system and restroom renovations aimed at saving water.
Sounds like a great example for other building to follow! Read more at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/06/24/sears-tower-getting-350m_n_220257.html