Plans are in place to make energy-reducing improvements to Chicago's Sears Tower. The $350 million project is to begin immediately, and could include placement of wind turbines and photovoltaic panels on its recessed rooftops, as well as upgrading the glass exterior by replacing the 16,000 windows with panes having a reflective coating. Other improvements under consideration relate to internal lighting, heating, cooling and elevator systems. Once the 5-year project is complete, the Tower's electricity consumption is expected to decline by 80 percent from current levels. Additionally, a hotel to be constructed adjacent to the Tower will draw "net zero energy from the power grid."
Interesting note for the local energy enthusiasts: "the Sears Tower plans to open a first-floor center to educate the public about the redesign."
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