New York City Close to Having World's Tallest Energy Efficient Building

New York City may be one year away from having the world's largest, energy-efficient building — part of Cornell University's new applied sciences graduate school campus on Roosevelt Island.

Alexander Yelizarov, who is overseeing the project's construction, said the 26-story residence will serve as an example for sustainable construction in the city. But first it has to pass the "Passive House Standards" test, which certify it will use 60 to 70 percent less energy than other buildings.  

"Once I complete the test, it's going to be the most satisfactory thing for me out of this whole project," Yelizarov said. "Because you're changing the future of construction and you're changing our world."

The view from the building's 26th floor, which will be a student library and deck.

(Rebeca Ibarra / WNYC)

Metal panels will wrap around the building, and nearly 15-inch thick walls and triple-pane windows will insulate it. A heating and cooling system continuously runs though the pipes, regulating the temperature year-round.

The residence is expected to house more than 500 students and faculty members starting next summer. 

Cornell Tech received the land and $100 million from the city to build the campus in 2011 — and Mayor Bill de Blasio has touted the residence when discussing his plan to reduce 80 percent of the city's greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The University is building the residence in partnership with Hudson Companies and Handel Architects. 

Yelizarov said more new city buildings should be energy efficient. "It's not an easy task," he said. "But, I think to accomplish the mayor's goal, this is the way we're going to have to do it."