National Renewable Energy Laboratory – Energy Systems Integration Facility
Architect:SmithGroup
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Construction Cost: $135 Million
Project Size: 175,000 gsf
Designed to facilitate complex systems research and development that integrates the most advanced simulation, data analysis, engineering and evaluation techniques, The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Energy Systems Integration Facility plans to transform the nation’s energy infrastructure. This state of the art facility will support not only research and engineering, but the testing and analysis of components and systems to enable economic, reliable integration of renewable electricity generation, fuel production, storage and building efficiency technologies. Convergent Technologies is providing complete design services for audiovisual systems with associated supporting infrastructure. This project features a high performance data center (HPDC) consisting of a 2.1teraflop supercomputer, supporting by an Insight Collaboration Room with a three-dimensional (3D) partial immersion cave. The HPDC also includes a visualization room with a videowall in the 24-32 mega pixel range. CERBS offers a rear projection cube 2×6 videowall Control Room and will simulate the typical large utility control systems, as well as integrate the display of real-time and faster than real-time data sets from any of the nine (9) connected experimental bays. Additional spaces to receive technology systems include secure videoconference rooms, collaborative conference rooms, and a common area tour system for the public with displays throughout the building. Displays on tour routes in the common areas will be timed and automated with a control system. This project is planned for completion in 2013.
