THE most high-profile commercial building in the North-East to be fitted with renewable energy systems is the new One NorthEast headquarters, Stella House, at Newburn, Newcastle.
The building uses environmentally sound systems, such as rainwater to flush toilets.
Eight south-facing solar panels have been installed to heat water and raise the temperature of water stored in a 1,000-litre tank.
The sun is also used to provide the most light for people in the building, making additional lighting less used.
One problem often faced by offices is that they become too hot when the sun is on them.
The One NorthEast building was designed to minimise the amount of heat absorbed from outside, at the same time as maximising the light.
Diane Ward, environmental policy officer for One NorthEast, said: "The agency aims to promote sustainability in its own development projects, which include One NorthEast's headquarters.
"The BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) recently awarded Stella House an excellent rating for its environmental construction methods."
Published: 11/05/2004
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