This post is brought to you by Architecture at Zero

*Competition Update: Registration and Submission deadline is May 20, 2020 at 6pm PST

The American Institute of Architects, California (AIACA) announces the launch of the ninth annual Architecture at Zero competition for zero net energy (ZNE) building designs. The competition is open for entries from students and professionals worldwide. 

This year, AIACA partners with the San Benito County Free Library in Hollister, CA. ZNE structures are designed from the start to be energy efficient and offset the energy they consume through onsite renewable energy generation such as rooftop solar. Winners are chosen by a panel of international experts and awarded up to $25,000 in total prizes.

“The American Institute of Architects, California is excited to collaborate on this important initiative that affirms the role of architects in leading efforts to use design to curtail climate change,” said Benjamin Kasdan, AIA, AIACA President.

The competition strives to generate new, innovative ideas for ZNE construction to help achieve California’s goal for all new residential construction to be ZNE by 2020 and all new commercial construction to be ZNE by 2030. 

“San Benito County residents are excited at to explore ideas for a new 21st century library that meets the needs of this diverse community,” said Chief Librarian, Nora Conte. “The Library is thrilled to partner with AIA CA and participants from around the world to develop zero net energy building designs.”

Competition entries will be juried by international experts including Paul Torcellini, Principal Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory; Gregg Ander, President of Gregg D. Ander, LLC; Allison Williams, FAIA; and Marsha Maytum, FAIA, LEED AP.

To learn more, visit www.architectureatzero.com. 

This program is funded by California utility customers and administered by PG&E under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.