The building is the first public, year-round building in Vermont to use composting toilets. The envelope decreases heating and cooling costs. The envelope eliminates the need for perimeter heating, decreasing capital cost. In contrast with most buildings, Oakes Hall does not send ventilated air to unoccupied rooms. Ventilating only rooms that are occupied is Oakes Hall's principal energy-saving strategy.
Super windows cost no more than standard, high quality new windows.
By transferring heat and water vapor the wheel will keep the building from becoming too dry in the winter or too humid in the summer. Economical Lighting Systems Minimize Energy Consumption Photoelectric lighting controls turn off corridor lighting when sufficient natural light is present. Lights are turned off automatically once users leave a classroom. Lighting fixtures include high-efficiency, low mercury, fluorescent lighting and compact fluorescents. Exit signs are lit by very efficient, long lasting, light emitting diodes.