RMF Designs High-Efficiency Systems for GGC

As a result of Georgia Gwinnett College's (GGC) rapid growth and growing student body, the campus is undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades, including its first-ever convocation center, The Gateway Building. Designed by SSOE and Hughes Group Architects and constructed by Carroll Daniel Construction, this 72,280-square-foot, three-story building serves as a multi-use hub for wellness, recreation, food services, and events.

One of its key features is being the first on campus to rely on a new centralized chilled water plant, which enhances energy efficiency and reliable cooling. RMF Engineering designed the plant and its utility distribution, ensuring the building's mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems support its diverse functions.

The building's energy efficiency was a significant challenge due to its multi-functional nature. RMF used advanced HVAC systems with controls that adjust output based on real-time demand, ensuring energy isn't wasted when spaces are unoccupied. The building includes central variable air volume systems with hydronic reheat units and automated controls that allow different areas to operate independently, improving energy efficiency.

For the large convocation center/arena, RMF integrated dynamic systems that adapt to varying occupancy levels, ensuring energy efficiency while maintaining comfort and air quality. Additional strategies, such as outside-air-based cooling, energy recovery, and digital energy metering, further enhance the building's sustainability.

Overall, the Gateway Building showcases how advanced engineering and building controls can optimize energy use in large event spaces, providing a model for future energy-efficient athletic and assembly facilities in higher education.

View the full article and learn more from RMF's Craig Buck in the Engineered Systems article, "Designing High-Efficiency Systems for Georgia Gwinnett College's First Convocation Center."