Project Lightyear

By embracing a net zero mission and pushing the boundaries of sustainable design, Project Lightyear sets a new benchmark for the construction industry and embodies the intrinsic link between human health and the built environment.

Situated within the dynamic Research Triangle Park Campus, Project Lightyear emerges as a powerful precedent for sustainable architecture. As the fifth net zero building within United Therapeutics' portfolio and the second within the campus, the facility demonstrates the transformative power of a holistic approach to operations and energy management.

Through collaboration between United Therapeutics, the city and county of Durham, NC, and Duke Energy, Project Lightyear has established a blueprint for future developments in the Research Triangle Park. By setting a new sustainability benchmark, Phase 5 paves the way for the future of construction. Its net zero mission, holistic energy management, and innovative design serve as catalysts for a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

At the core of Project Lightyear lies its ambitious net zero energy goal, eliminating the reliance on fossil fuels and setting a new industry standard. This goal is accomplished through a comprehensive suite of sustainable systems, including advanced system controls, a rooftop photovoltaic array with 1,200 panels, geothermal systems, Tesla Megapack battery backup, and a microgrid. These systems enable the facility to generate, distribute, and consume energy efficiently while fostering resilience and self-sufficiency.

As we navigate the challenges of climate change, Project Lightyear inspires us to think differently and embrace a future where sustainable architecture and responsible energy practices seamlessly converge, ultimately leading us toward a more resilient and environmentally conscious world.