Durham, North Carolina
Bennett & Pless is proud to have provided the structural engineering for Duke University’s Central Campus Chilled Water Plant #3, a project recognized with a PCI (Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute) Design Award for its innovative use of precast concrete. The facility was designed to meet the university’s increasing cooling demands while supporting its goal of carbon neutrality by 2024.
This 48,500-square-foot plant integrates with two existing chilled water facilities, ensuring reliable cooling for campus buildings, including the 490,000-square-foot Duke University Hospital bed tower. Its insulated precast concrete wall panels enhance durability, energy efficiency, and visual continuity with the surrounding campus architecture.
The plant features two 119,000-pound chillers, delivering 7,600 tons of cooling capacity—enough to support over five million square feet of space. The facility is designed for future expansion, with the ability to double its cooling capacity to 15,200 tons. A Thermal Energy Storage (TES) system shifts cooling production to off-peak hours, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs.
Strategically located near Duke’s high-profile landmarks—including Sarah P. Duke Gardens, the Nasher Museum of Art, and the Rubenstein Arts Center—the plant’s precast concrete façade incorporates 1-inch-deep reveals and multiple finishes, balancing functional performance with a refined architectural presence.
By delivering structural engineering expertise, Bennett & Pless played a key role in a project that enhances Duke University’s infrastructure, improves energy efficiency, and ensures long-term sustainability.
