Construction of the Caribbean’s first Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) is to get underway at the University of the West Indies shortly.

Ground was broken earlier this week for the US$500,000 project aimed at lowering environmental impact and operating and maintenance costs, improving resiliency to power outages and natural disasters, and improving Jamaica’s energy security.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Energy, Science and Technology, Dr. Andrew Wheatley indicated that the adaptation and implementation of NZEBs should go a far way in reducing the country’s carbon footprint, ensuring future utility cost savings, and increasing worker productivity and comfort.

It is also expected that this facility, which is due to be completed by December, will influence the implementation of regulatory tools, as well as transform building policies and practices.

The project is being implemented by UWI’s Institute for Sustainable Development, with technical assistance from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and funding from the Global Environment Facility.

Senior Programme Manager for the Energy, Climate and Technology Branch of UNEP, Kenya, Geordie Colville, says the building is designed to maximise the use of natural sunlight for energy, while reducing the need for air conditioning and artificial lighting.

The 2,300-square foot NZEB will include a centre for research on renewable energy, as well as conference facilities. As a prototype, it will demonstrate emerging and best practices in the built environment as it relates to energy efficiency, renewable energy and environmental design.

The structure will reduce energy consumption by 40 per cent compared to a non-zero net energy building. Excess power generated will be sold to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPSCo) under a net billing arrangement.

The building is also to be utilised as an emergency shelter, as it will be designed to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes, and harvest storm, drainage and waste water. It is expected to save up to 30 per cent in water consumption under everyday conditions.