Eastside Fire & Rescue Station #72

Issaquah, Washington

One of the most energy efficient fire stations in the region.

Eastside Fire & Rescue Station 72 is one the most energy-efficient fire station in the region, designed to meet the ambitious Architecture 2030 Challenge target of a 70% reduction in energy use compared to a typical regional fire station.

This achievement was made possible by implementing several key strategies to minimize energy demand. A ground source heat pump serves as the primary HVAC system, utilizing hydronic radiant slabs for efficient heating and cooling. Additionally, small residential-scale heat pumps provide localized heating, cooling, and hot water, with the capability to back each other up if needed. Through super-insulation and heat recovery ventilation, we were able to reduce the heating system’s size to one-third of that required by a standard fire station.

To address the high domestic hot water (DHW) load, we installed low-flow plumbing fixtures and solar thermal preheat panels. An 8,500-gallon rainwater cistern collects water for toilet flushing, laundry, irrigation, and truck washing, further reducing our reliance on municipal water sources.

Rooftop solar PV panels generate approximately 20% of the station’s total annual electrical energy demand. Real-time energy use feedback is provided to the occupants, promoting awareness and encouraging energy-efficient behaviors.

Awards

• 1st Place, 2013 ASHRAE National Technology Award, Institutional

Read more about project in an ASHRAE Journal magazine, and in Plumbing Engineer magazine.