KMD Architects design for a new 12-story headquarters for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission is expected to be a leader in demonstrating energy efficiency, water recycling and reduced carbon footprint among major office buildings nationally, according to P.U.C. officials. The $178 million, 254,000-square foot headquarters will include wind turbines on the roof, solar panels embedded in outer walls, and a natural-cooling "thermal chimney," enabling the structure to supply 40 percent of its own energy needs. Planned to break ground at 525 Golden Gate Ave. near City Hall in 2008, the P.U.C. headquarters also will employ...faucet sensors, waterless urinals, and on-demand water heaters that will cut use to 5 gallons per occupant per day, compared to average office-building use of 25 gallons a day. A grey-water wastewater recycling system enables reuse of water from faucets and sinks in the building's toilets and the cooling system. The building is designed to exceed LEEDs-Platinum, and will exceed California's recently-instituted Title 24 requirements for energy efficiency in new office buildings by 60 percent. Via:: PR Newswire Image credit:: KDM