Salt River Project Call Center

Phoenix, Arizona

The Salt River Project, a major power utility primarily serving the east Phoenix metropolitan area, is deeply committed to sustainability. In recent years the company’s commitment has extended to conservation of resources demonstrated in the greening of their facility construction and capital improvement program. The SRP Pinal County Call Center’s site design takes advantage of strategies that can best be utilized in a rural/suburban setting. Open space with desert landscaping comprises nearly one third of the site area. The pallet of landscaping materials includes only native and adapted vegetation. After a period of establishment, these plants will receive water only by direct rainfall and from a rainwater catchment system. This facility is SRP’s first attempt at recognition for internal commitment to sustainability and building green.

Sustainable Strategies

• The roofing material selected reflects heat and thus avoids contributing to the urban heat island effect.

• Storm water is fully retained onsite and is allowed to percolate back into the water table as it is filtered through sub-surface soils

• Both interior and exterior lighting is designed to avoid light trespass into the night sky or onto neighboring properties or public rights-of-way

• Preferred parking spaces for fuel efficient vehicles

• Walkways through the employee parking area are shaded by desert trees

• Daylighting illuminates the interior through perimeter glazing and rooftop monitors

Project Results

• LEED for New Construction GOLD level achieved

• 31% energy cost savings above ASHRAE 90.1-1999 energy standard

• 100% savings of potable water use for irrigation

• 80% of construction waste was diverted from the landfill

• 70% of building materials manufactured within a 500 mile radius