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Mitsubishi Electric's SUSTIE: A Beacon of Sustainable Architecture

In an impressive victory for sustainable architecture, the "SUSTIE" building, developed by Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei, and Waseda University, has been honored with the Asia Regional Excellence Award in the new office category of the prestigious ASHRAE Technology Awards Program. This program, organized annually by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), is considered one of the largest and most esteemed awards in the field of environmental building technology. The honor was bestowed upon SUSTIE during the ASHRAE Region XIII Chapters Regional Conference, paving the way for the project to represent Asia at the global awards slated for 2026.

Understanding ASHRAE Technology Awards

The ASHRAE Technology Awards, established in 1999, evaluate innovative buildings based on comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency. SUSTIE earned its accolade due to its strong performance in these categories, exemplifying sustainable practices in urban settings. ASHRAE, headquartered in Atlanta, has over 50,000 members worldwide, making it a leading authority in building systems and design.

A Trailblazer in Sustainable Practices

SUSTIE stands out as Japan’s first mid-sized office building to achieve the highest ranks in three key certifications: BELS (Building Energy Efficiency Labeling System) with a ZEB (Zero Energy Building) rating, CASBEE-Smart Wellness Office ranking of S, and WELL certification with a Platinum rating. The building employs advanced technologies and practices aimed at not just energy reduction but enhancing the comfort and health of its occupants. Using AI and IoT technologies, SUSTIE commits to ongoing improvements in energy efficiency and operational effectiveness post-construction.

Four Key Features of the SUSTIE Building

As urban centers grapple with the urgent need for ZEB implementation and adaptive workplace environments, SUSTIE serves as a prototype building addressing these societal challenges. Let’s explore its key features:

1. Design Approach for ZEB Implementation: SUSTIE combines passive design strategies like architectural openings with high-efficiency systems to drastically reduce energy consumption. The incorporation of on-site solar panels produces around 360 kW of energy, epitomizing its ZEB capabilities.

2. Maximizing Natural Energy Use: The building's design leverages natural light and ventilation effectively. The spacious atrium located on the north side ensures ample daylighting, eliminating the need for artificial lighting during the day and utilizing gravity ventilation techniques to allow hot air to escape naturally.

3. Advanced Equipment Integration: To balance ZEB requirements with occupant wellness, SUSTIE employs a unique ceiling-chamber air radiating system, providing a comfortable environment without excessive use of energy while enhancing workers’ comfort levels.

4. AI-Driven Operational Solutions: Leveraging a digital twin environment based on BIM data, SUSTIE simulates various operational scenarios, predicting impacts on energy consumption and comfort levels, leading to continuously optimized operational protocols. The building also embraces a cutting-edge location detection service that facilitates Activity-Based Working (ABW), thus enhancing both energy efficiency and workplace comfort.

As of now, SUSTIE has successfully exceeded the ZEB criteria in its energy consumption metrics, with actual energy generation surpassing consumption within the first two years of operation. This project actively contributes to reducing overall CO2 emissions linked to building operations, addressing both current and future environmental challenges.

Awards and Recognitions

Since its inception, SUSTIE has consistently garnered acknowledgment for its design and energy facilitation, winning several prestigious awards including:

• - New Office Promotion Award from Nikkei New Office Awards, August 2021
• - Selected as one of JIA's Outstanding Architecture 2021
• - Encouragement Award at the Tokyo Architecture Award, May 2023
• - Energy Conservation Award, December 2023
• - Carbon Neutral Award, Kanto Branch Award in May 2024

With accolades reinforcing its role as a leader in sustainable architecture, SUSTIE remains committed to advancing eco-friendly building practices and enhancing the future workplace landscape.

For more information, visit the Waseda University website or refer to Mitsubishi Electric's announcements on the building's innovative design and operational capabilities.