BU thinks smart, unveils new energy facility

VESTAL, N.Y. -- It was a project more than 5 years in the making: Thursday morning, Binghamton University unveiled its new Smart Energy Building to the public.

The $70 million, 114,000-square foot facility focuses on research and development in the departments of chemistry and physics. With a focus on smart energy, the new building includes using rain water for cooling, solar panels for electricity and green roofing.

University President Harvey Stenger says the new facility will push BU well beyond other universities in the state.

The investments made to the building are said to have had an economic impact of more than $90 million, supporting more than 900 local jobs.