New green home for ENERGEX

Construction is underway on an innovative new home for ENERGEX which will help slash the organisation’s carbon footprint, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today.

The 17-hectare Riverpark development, being jointly built by FKP, has been rated as one of the most environmentally-friendly designed commercial premises in Australia.

Inspecting work on the new building today during a time capsule burial ceremony, the Minister said the project would be a flagship one in the battle against climate change.

“Queensland is Australia’s engine room for innovation,” Mr Wilson said.

“This innovative building embodies the Premier’s vision for tomorrow’s Queensland -Toward Q2 - which will create a Queensland that in 2020 is strong, green, smart, healthy and fair.

“It will help us reach our goal of cutting Queenslanders’ carbon footprint by one-third by 2020.”

Mr Wilson said the building would boast cutting edge green technology aimed at slashing carbon emissions.

"When completed, the building will feature technologies such as photovoltaic cells, active chilled beam cooling, automatic water harvesting and some unique waste management systems which will cut waste by up to 55 per cent in some areas,” he said.

"Overall, the building is expected to use nearly two-thirds less electricity than buildings of comparable size."

The six-storey, 28,600sqm office will cut carbon dioxide emissions by more than 2100 tonnes each year, equivalent to removing 520 cars from the road annually.

A 200,000 litre rain tank will supply all toilets and landscape irrigation decreasing water usage by 38 million litres annually while predominately using natural light for internal illumination.

Mr Wilson said staff would also reap the benefits from the latest architectural concept designs to improve the working environment.

“While future generations benefit from this level of sustainability, the ENERGEX staff of today will also benefit from the building’s unprecedented design,” he said.

“Staff will work predominately under healthy natural lighting, breathe fresh air cycled at levels 150% higher than required by Australian standards and enjoy Newstead Riverpark’s 17-hectare site with walking paths and bike tracks.

“The city-fringe location will also be serviced by rail, road and river public transport with high frequency bus services, nearby train station and a proposed City Cat stop. All of this will help reduce private vehicle usage.”

Mr Wilson commended ENERGEX and FKP for their alliance on the project.

"This project is a true example of responsible planning and responsible business. It is an excellent example of two leading organisations in their respective fields collaborating for the benefit of future generations.”

Mr Wilson said the new building would be an historic milestone in both Queensland architecture and industrial responsibility.

“In years to come, the new ENERGEX headquarters will be seen as the benchmark in sustainable development and corporate conscience.”

ENERGEX is expected to move into the new building mid 2010.

Please note – Photos of this morning’s sod turning and artists’ impression of the completed building are available.

Media inquiries: Minister’s office 3224 7332 or 0414 213 954.