News Brief

Students Move into "Largest Net-Zero Community" in U.S.

by Paula Melton

By Paula Melton

Common areas in the West Village at University of California–Davis, which aims to be the largest net-zero community in the U.S., include this 15,000 ft2 recreation center.

Photo: West Village Community Partnership, LLC
The University of California–Davis has opened its West Village development, which aims to be the largest net-zero-energy community in the country. The project will eventually cover 200 acres and include apartments for 850 students, 343 single-family homes for faculty and staff, and retail, recreation, and education centers.

A 4 MW photovoltaic system, including rooftop installations and canopies over parking areas, will power the apartments and retail centers.

Single-family homes will be available for purchase starting in 2012. The homes are expected to be popular; the university views them as a recruiting and retention tool for full-time faculty and staff, according to a spokeswoman.

Publicity for the West Village development has downplayed LEED certification, but the spokeswoman told

EBN the West Village was pursuing LEED Platinum certification for its buildings in addition to the development-wide net-zero goal.

Published August 30, 2011

Melton, P. (2011, August 30). Students Move into "Largest Net-Zero Community" in U.S.. Retrieved from https://www.buildinggreen.com/newsbrief/students-move-largest-net-zero-community-us

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