AIA California launches 2020 Architecture at Zero competition

The American Institute of Architects, California (AIACA) has launched the ninth annual Architecture at Zero competition for zero net energy (ZNE) building designs. The competition is open for entries from students and professionals worldwide.

AIACA is partnering this year with the San Benito County Free Library in Hollister, CA. ZNE structures are designed from the start to be energy efficient and offset the energy they consume through onsite renewable energy generation such as rooftop solar. Winners are chosen by a panel of international experts and awarded up to $25,000 in total prizes.

“The American Institute of Architects, California is excited to collaborate on this important initiative that affirms the role of architects in leading efforts to use design to curtail climate change,” AIACA president Benjamin Kasdan said in a statement.

The competition strives to generate new, innovative ideas for ZNE construction to help achieve California’s goal for all new residential construction to be ZNE by 2020 and all new commercial construction to be ZNE by 2030.

“San Benito County residents are excited at to explore ideas for a new 21st century library that meets the needs of this diverse community,” Chief Librarian Nora Conte was quoted as saying in Archinet. “The Library is thrilled to partner with AIA CA and participants from around the world to develop zero net energy building designs.”

Competition entries will be juried by international experts including Paul Torcellini, Principal Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory; Gregg Ander, President of Gregg D. Ander; Allison Williams; and Marsha Maytum.

This program is funded by California utility customers and administered by PG&E under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.