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Photo courtesy of the Oregon Zoo.

Elephant Lands, Oregon Zoo

Portland, OR

Business Type

New elephant habitat

Size

33,000 square feet

Architect

SRG Partnership, Inc.

Owner

Metro

Progress Report

Pursuing 60% energy efficiency
Pursuing 40% carbon emission reduction

Certifications

  • LEED Gold

Project Categories

Civic + Cultural

Portland

The new Elephant Lands increases the original habitat to nearly one-tenth the entire zoo's footprint. At that size, PAE's energy-efficient heating and cooling systems provide cost savings for the whole zoo, as well as healthier habitats for the elephants themselves.

Special Features


  • A highly efficient heating system which includes heat recovery and a new horizontal geothermal plant, resulting in a 95% reduction in the building heating load.
  • A solar thermal system will meet 80% of the building’s hot-water needs in summer months.
  • 20kW PV array offers a reduction in energy costs.
  • Extensive daylighting and mixed-mode natural ventilation provides a healthy, well-ventilated space for the elephants.

Blog Coverage