HP’s Barcelona site obtains gold-level LEED environmental certification

Just over one year ago, 3D printing company HP inaugurated its 3D Printing and Digital Manufacturing Center of Excellence just outside of Barcelona. The new building, which spans over 150,000 square feet, is one of the world’s largest and most advanced AM facilities. As it turns out, it is also one of the most environmental new builds in Spain.

The massive 3D printing facility has become the first construction project in Spain to achieve the gold level of LEEDv4 BD+C:NC certification. The building, which received 65 points out of 110 according to the Green Building Management (GBM) scorecard, was granted the gold level certification in March 2020.

Managed by EDETCO TÈCNICS, with the support of PROISOTEC engineering, the construction of HP’s now operational facility prioritized several environmental factors. For one, HP wanted to reduce the building’s water consumption and energy consumption as much as possible.

To address the former, the building’s design integrates a rainwater collection system that accumulates 100% of the water that falls on the site and its surrounding land (minus the water needed by the land). This system has resulted in a 100% reduction in irrigation water consumption and a 49.61% reduction in indoor water consumption. Additionally, two water tanks with treatment systems collect water from a stream’s leaks and runoff, which is used in the toilets, urinals and for irrigating the outdoor space.

The HP 3D printing facility, which houses many research teams and printing areas, obviously uses a lot of power. To mitigate this energy consumption, the building has several innovative features, such as photovoltaic panels on part of its roof, which generate energy in an eco-friendly way. These panels have reportedly resulted in a 26% reduction in energy consumption. Other Biophilic design features like measurement systems have been installed  to help understand and monitor the building’s environment and state.

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification that HP has been granted is a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards becoming fully sustainable. In fact, the company aims to use 100% renewable energy in its global operations over time, with a target of 60% renewable usage by 2025. Beyond HP’s achievement, the environmental construction certification is also an exciting landmark for Barcelona and Spain.