Case Study
Case Study: Big Island Grown
Net‑Zero Cultivation & Distribution Facility
Big Island Grown sought to build more than just a facility—they wanted a sustainable, purpose-built operation that aligned with clean energy values. This two‑story, 35,500 sq ft building in Hilo utilizes rooftop solar and hydroelectric power to achieve a net‑zero energy footprint. From initial planning, Western Steel collaborated with the Big Island Grown team to incorporate a full mezzanine level, advanced insulation, and a climate-controlled environment, all while maintaining high standards of build quality, energy efficiency, and operational performance.
Key Challenges
- Total size with mezzanine: 35,500 sq ft
- Building dimensions: 100’ × 175’ × 32’ gable building structure
- Features: Full mezzanine level, insulated metal panels roof & wall system, low slope roof, renewable energy.
Key Challenges
- Achieving net-zero energy in a tropical climate with high humidity and solar gain.
- Incorporating a full mezzanine without sacrificing structural headroom or interfering with the building’s flow.
- Ensuring the roof’s 1:12 slope accommodates solar panel layout efficiently.
- Delivering an insulated, weather‑tight and antimicrobial building envelope with superior performance.
Solution / Approach
- Used insulated metal panels for roof and walls to optimize thermal performance and reduce energy loads.
- Built the full mezzanine with joists and decking to add usable space within the same footprint.
- Designed roof slope (1:12) suitable for solar panel placement and effective drainage.
- Integrated renewable power sources (solar + hydroelectric) from the start, aligning building systems to support clean energy goals.
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Questions from our Customers:
What types of steel buildings does Western Steel specialize in?
Western Steel specializes in a variety of steel buildings, including pre-engineered metal buildings, hybrid steel buildings, and customized prefab industrial steel buildings with a focus on American steel buildings for commercial, industrial, and municipal projects. Our steel construction solutions range from warehouses and machinery storage to customizable designs for flexible commercial spaces, ensuring durability and precision for every project.
How do general steel buildings compare to traditional construction methods?
General steel buildings provide several benefits over traditional construction methods. They are known for their strength and flexibility, allowing for larger open spaces without the need for internal supports. Steel buildings also offer faster construction times due to pre-engineered components and are often more cost-effective in the long run. Moreover, steel structures are highly resistant to pests, fire, and extreme weather conditions, making them a durable choice.