Groundbreaking Set For Energy Efficient Building

UPPER MARLBORO, Md. (AP) -- Maryland officials will be breaking ground for an energy efficient building in Prince George's County.

Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker and Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown will attend the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday in Accokeek for the Potomac Watershed Study Center.

The building is being touted as one of the most environmentally friendly in the world. When it is finished, supporters say it will take green buildings to a new level by being a net-zero water, net-zero energy and carbon neutral facility.

It's the region's first Living Building. Now, there are only three certified Living Buildings in the world.

Energy for the facilities will be generated from photoelectric and solar thermal arrays and geothermal wells. Rainwater will be collected and purified for use in the center.

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