Energy-saving ‘cool roofs’ installed at Y-12

New roofs that reflect heat are expected to reduce energy costs at the Y-12 National Security Complex, a press release said.

The light-colored “cool” roofs reflect more heat than darker roofs, emitting absorbed solar radiation back into the atmosphere and helping to keep buildings cooler. They can reduce cooling costs by up to 15 percent.

The release said 15 percent of Y-12 roofs are now equipped with the roofs, and they are expected to be used for a majority of the plant’s buildings. Y-12 has already installed almost 100,000 square feet of the roofs, including, most recently, on Buildings 9204-2E and 9103, the release said.

“Replacing older, heat-absorbing roofs with the heat-reflective cool roofs is part of National Nuclear Security Administration’s strategy to achieve energy and cost efficiencies,” said Robert “Dino” Herrera, Facilities and Infrastructure Recapitalization Program manager. “We strive to lead the way as good stewards of the environment.”

The press release said NNSA has installed nearly three million square feet of cool roofs at eight sites across the country and expects to save energy and related costs during the next several years.