by Rebecca Walker — December 7, 2009—Taiwan’s Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings, is getting a $1.9 million overhaul aimed at reducing its energy and water consumption by 10 percent.
The 101-story skyscraper is undergoing an 18-month renovation to upgrade its heating, cooling and ventilation systems. An additional measure being considered by the building’s owner, Taipei Financial Center Corp (TFC), is a piping structure that would transport rainwater to flush the toilets.
Meanwhile, energy-efficient light bulbs and tubes will replace conventional counterparts, while locally produced food will be served at the building’s restaurants to reduce greenhouse gases associated with transport.
The modifications, to be finished by late 2010, are expected to save at least $600,000 per year equal to 10 per cent of the building’s annual electricity costs, which currently top $6 million.
The green upgrades are being carried out by engineering giant Siemens, environmental management firm EcoTech International Group and interior design consultancy The Steven Leach Group.
Taipei 101 already has a number of green initiatives in place, including a waste recycling program, grey-water recycling system and a double-glazed glass curtain wall, which shields the building’s occupants from Taiwan’s subtropical heat.
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