Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions, Industrial  -  March 24, 2025

Chico State Unveils Net-Zero Building

Chico State announced its new Behavioral and Social Sciences Building, a 94,000-square-foot facility, sets a benchmark for sustainable construction.

The building was constructed by Turner Construction Company and earned a LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. It incorporates energy-efficient systems to be the first net-zero building on the Chico State campus.

The Behavioral and Social Sciences Building will generate more renewable energy than it consumes, according to a release. Its sustainable features include solar panels, LED lighting, a chilled beam cooling system and a water-efficient infrastructure. Eco-conscious materials were also used, including benches made from sustainably repurposed valley oak trees, to reduce the project’s carbon footprint.

Turner incorporated sustainable practices into the construction of the project by using smart building technology to optimize temporary heating. By deploying sensors and transitioning to renewable diesel, Turner reduced carbon emissions, improved air quality, and minimized fuel consumption. Additionally, the team diverted nearly 80 tons of clean drywall cutoffs from landfills by separating and recycling the material during construction. These efforts lowered the environmental impact while increasing efficiency and cost savings on the project.

The Behavioral and Social Sciences Building is a multifunctional hub housing nine academic departments, a large 130-seat lecture hall, 22 classrooms, five laboratories, study and breakout areas, an indoor arboretum and Love Bird coffee shop. It also houses the Community Legal Information Clinic and the Gender and Sexuality Equity Coalition.