Green Initiatives in the Strafford Region

Strafford Regional Planning Commission met with Project Director of the Green Launching Pad last week at the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics. The Green Launching Pad is a public and private sector initiative that enables local start-ups to bring green technologies to market in New Hampshire. The goal is to launch an annual competition “green” energy technology commercialization which is for NH entrepreneurs, businesses, and innovators. There has been three rounds of competition thus far. For more information please contact glp.info@unh.edu.

The Paul School at the University of New Hampshire finished construction back in April 2013 on Garrison Avenue in Durham, NH.  This is a new 115,000 square foot academic building that will house the Paul College of Business and Economics.  There are 25 high-tech group rooms that are equipped with video screens and recording equipment for students working on group projects. This new facility has 900 new classroom seats in 16 technology rich classrooms. In addition, a two-story “Great Hall” for informal gathering and special events, and a courtyard for outdoor events and activities. The newly landscaped courtyard is a beautiful space to enjoy an afternoon or walk through the open air portal that leads to downtown Durham.

The project was largely funded through private gifts including $25 million the largest ever, single gift commitment in the University’s history from Peter T. Paul (’67).  This building will be a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)”Gold” certified facility, a standard of environmentally friendly design and construction.  This is one of two building buildings on the UNH Campus that is LEED certified showcasing the University’s commitment to sustainable programs and facilities.