| Engineering
Energy The enthusiasm in Al Nichols' voice
when he speaks of Civano is dearly evident. Mr. Nichols is a Professional Engineer whose
firm is guided by the motto 'Engineering Solutions for the 21st Century'. When one hears
of his team's contributions to livable communities it becomes apparent that creative,
practical solutions are the order of the day.
Mr. Nichols states, "I became involved with Civano
twelve years ago. As an energy engineer, I have had a key role in writing the Sustainable
Energy Standards - Civano's stringent regulations governing energy, water and community
requirements. It is one of my responsibilities to ensure these regulations are adhered to
in every respect. The builders at Civano have been very responsible by ensuring that
nothing happens to jeopardize the project. The Neighborhood Center, the RASTRA
homes and the homes built with Structurally Insulated Panels were either designed
(mechanical/plumbing) or reviewed for compliance with the Sustainable Energy Standard by
our firm."
"I am also the chairman of the Metropolitan Energy
Commission, and those of us on the board are essentially the 'holders and keepers of the
faith', representing the interests of the citizens of Arizona. In fact, our most
significant goal is that others will be able to implement the lessons from Civano on a
greater basis for a greater good - nationally and even globally. This project cannot and
will not fail. It has been our experience that people really want to live in a community
like Civano." According to Kevin Kelly, a partner in Civano, "Al's technical
knowledge and innovative thinking are invaluable to us."
Al Nichols, PE, CEM, BCFE, is the principal
of Al Nichols Engineering.
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