The World’s Tallest LEED Platinum Building

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Taiwan’s Taipei 101 skyscraper – the second tallest building in the world – was just awarded LEED Platinum certification, making it the world’s tallest green skyscraper! Completed in 2004, Taipei 101 stands 1,667 feet tall above the streets of the Xinyi District in Taipei, Taiwan. A three-year-long green retrofit has successfully enabled the skyscraper to save 10% on electricity and water costs, produce significantly less waste, and use 30% less energy – the building reduced annual utility costs by $700,000 a year.

The Taipei 101 was the tallest building in the world until the 2,717 foot Burj Khalifa was completed in Dubai last year. It houses 101 floors above ground and 5 below, including a multi-level mall and hundreds of restaurants and clubs.

As if the building didn’t stand out enough, Taipei 101 set out to make a name for itself in a new category. With the help of dream team EcoTech International, Steven Leach Associates, and Siemens’ Building Technologies Division, Taipei 101 began to improve its energy efficiency three years ago. Cooling systems were changed and a scientific system of energy modeling and audits made a huge impact on the building’s green persona.

Though the restoration venture was expensive, the outcome is worth every penny. “We started improving energy efficiency in 2007 and in the three years to 2010, we have already made that money back,” said Cathy Yang, vice president of the tower division of Taipei 101.

It’s incredible to see a seven-year-old skyscraper awarded LEED platinum certification – the highest level of achievement in the LEED system. Buildings large and small around the world are now running out of excuses.

via Inhabitat