Courthouse 'cool roof' has solar panels, reflective membrane

KANSAS CITY, KA — The Robert J. Dole U.S. Courthouse has installed 200 solar panels and a 'cool roof' reflective membrane as part of a $4.6 million energy-efficiency renovations project funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, according to the Kansas City Star.

According to the story, the solar panels will provide the building with electricity and the reflective membrane will reduce energy costs by deflecting sunlight and keeping the building cool.

Mary Ruwwe, regional commissioner for the federal General Services Administration, said: "This solar roof is one of the first of its kind in the Kansas City area. It's a prime example of how we are driving the development of new, green jobs. Many of the roofers employed on the project learned new skills in advanced-technology solar panel installation."

The building is also planning to install a display in the lobby to monitor how much energy is being generated from the roof, the story added.

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