Boston Nature Center / Boston, MA

Boston Nature Center

“This is a building that teaches on a number of levels. First it is where more than 3700 children from our schools come to learn about nature and science. Second it shows how being environmentally friendly is also cost effective. Third it reminds all of us that teamwork and determination can accomplish anything.”

Thomas Menino, Mayor, Boston Massachusetts

The Boston Nature Center was the first municipal green building in Boston. The renewable energy technologies included geothermal heat pumps, photovoltaic solar shingles and a solar hot water system. The SunSlate shingles that Alteris™ Renewables installed convert sunlight into electricity without producing any pollution. The design and installation was so successful that Alteris™ Renewables was asked to install PV solar systems on seven other sanctuaries in 2006.

Installation Type Building Integrated Solar Array
Location Boston, MA
Type of Panel Atlantis Sunslates
Date Completed Sep 2002
Type of Inverter Xantrex SunTie 1500
System Size 3.00 kW
Power Generated (annual) 91,650 kWh
PV Surface Area 310 sq. ft.
1st Year Savings $470

  • Reduces CO2 emissions 89,830 lbs. over the life of the system

  • Equivalent to planting 419 trees

  • This is the same as eliminating 98,261 driving miles

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  • This is a building that teaches on a number of levels. First it is where more than 3700 children from our schools come to learn about nature and science. Second it shows how being environmentally friendly is also cost effective. Third it reminds all of us that teamwork and determination can accomplish anything.

    Thomas Menino, Mayor, Boston Massachusetts