Seneffe, Belgium
Dow Corning opened the $11.5 million Solar Energy Exploration and Development (SEED) facility in January of 2012. The two-building project is located in Seneffe, Belgium, and includes the Solar Application Centre and the Silicone Synthesis Technology Centre. Designed by Group IPS, the sustainably designed R&D facility features a geothermal energy system with a heat pump, photovoltaic window shades, a glazed façade, and vacuum insulation panels. The heating costs for the facility are expected to be 75 percent lower than a conventional building, and electricity costs are expected to be 70 percent lower. The project uses an air recycling system that will prevent the release of 290 tons of carbon dioxide annually.
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