Topeka (WIBW) - The state's largest electric utility is being recognized for its efforts to use less energy.

Westar Energy was awarded a LEED Silver Certification established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). The honor recognizes efforts in designing Westar's Lawrence Service Center.

LEED is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

"With each new LEED-certified building, we get one step closer to USGBC’s vision of a sustainable built environment within a generation,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair, USGBC. “As the newest member of the LEED family of green buildings, Westar Energy’s Lawrence Service Center is an important addition to the growing strength of the green building movement.”

LEED certification of the Lawrence Service Center was based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the building’s energy use, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a healthier environment for workers and the larger community.

The building’s green features include energy efficient lighting operated by advanced motion and lighting sensors; a geothermal heat pump system that heats and cools the building; special lighting in the truck bay areas that minimizes the need for artificial light; and low-emitting VOC materials that were used in the carpet, furnishings, adhesives and finishes, to provide cleaner air throughout the facility.

Pat Tryon, Westar Energy’s project architect, says the building will use 34 percent less energy than USGBC’s baseline standard for efficient buildings.

A certificate ceremony will take place at 3:30 p.m., Dec. 3rd, at the Lawrence Service Center, 746 E. 27th St.