Packard Foundation Headquarters the World’s Largest Net Zero Energy Building

Written by Bea Karnes

The Packard Foundation has put its money where its mouth is, so to speak, by building a 49,000 square foot headquarters building that is the largest Net Zero Energy Certified building in the world.

Utilizing solar panels, the building generates more electricity than it uses.

But solar panels are just the start—the building’s ventilation system uses 100 percent outside air, it captures rain water for flushing toilets, and California native plants are used in the landscaping to provide a home for local birds.

“The Packard Foundation believes that the future of the planet’s health greatly depends on how we live and work today,” said Susan Packard Orr, board chair of the Foundation. “My parents, David and Lucile Packard, cared deeply about science and technology as a means to effect positive change in the lives of real people, everywhere.  I am sure they would see their values reflected in this important achievement that’s been realized through the Foundation’s new headquarters.”

The building at 343 Second St. in Los Altos was designed by EHDD Architecture of San Francisco.

The headquarters received its Net Zero Energy Building Certification through the International Living Future Institute (ILFI). It also carries LEED Platinum (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.

About the David and Lucile Packard Foundation

David and Lucile Packard Foundation is a private family foundation created in 1964 by David Packard, cofounder of the Hewlett-Packard Company, and his wife, Lucile Salter Packard. The Foundation makes national and international grants and also has a special focus on the Northern California counties of San Benito, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Monterey.