Energy conservation measures such as high efficiency equipment retrofits, controls upgrades, and commissioning have become popular ways to reduce existing buildings' operating costs. However, cost effective efficiency measures applied to new construction in the design phase can result in greater operating efficiency and environmental impact. These measures entail innovative design concepts and control schemes in addition to specification of premium efficiency equipment. This paper presents Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) design, with primary focus on the HVAC and Controls aspects for Laredo Independent School District's (LISD) Nixon High School in Texas. Energy and water conservation was considered in nearly every aspect of the design, which includes innovative dual-duct Variable Air Volume (VAV) systems for cooling and pre-treated ventilation air delivery integrated with occupancy sensors and digital controls, and optimized HVAC controls for dynamic balancing of air and hydronic sides. The project demonstrates how investment during the planning and design phase can potentially pay dividends by substantially reducing facility lifecycle costs
