Buildings & Energy

Suffolk University occupies 10 buildings in Downtown Boston. To maintain and improve our portfolio, we employ building standards for new construction and large renovations consistent with LEED standards. This ensures new projects are designed to not just surpass industry level efficiency but to support human health through improved air quality and active design.

Energy Conservation & Renewable Power

Suffolk's downtown Boston location provides us with many opportunities and challenges when it comes to alternative energy sources and energy conservation. The City of Boston sets requirements for large buildings to reduce their energy and water consumption through the Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO). Suffolk University has begun to reduce our emissions through procurement of off-site solar power in Massachusetts and through energy efficiency projects, such as, LED lighting retrofits, roof replacements, and mechanical upgrades.

Design Standards for New Construction & Large Renovations

45% of Suffolk's owned square footage was built to LEED certification guidelines (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Certification), and as additional projects are taken on, they are built with the same principles as dictated by Boston Planning & Development Agency guidelines. With this effort, our LEED spaces and beyond feature:

  • Sustainable Site: urban land, public transportation, walkable, underground parking
  • Water Efficiency: low-flow plumbing fixtures
  • Energy & Atmosphere: efficient or commissioned HVAC equipment, LED lighting, Energy Star rated efficient appliances, restroom hand dryers, destination control elevators
  • Materials & Resources: diverting construction waste, regional material selection, certified wood, recycled content materials
  • Indoor Environmental Quality: smoke-free buildings, low-emitting paint/flooring/furniture
  • Additional Operational Highlights: bottle filling stations, ADA signage, accessible staircases to incentivize using stairs

Green Buildings on Campus