San Diego County Public Health Lab awarded LEED Platinum certification

San Diego County’s newly opened Public Health Laboratory in Kearny Mesa has earned platinum certification, the highest possible rating, from the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED program.

The facility marks the 34th county building to earn LEED certification, joining 70 total county buildings with silver, gold or platinum ratings, officials said.

“The new Public Health Lab sets a powerful example of climate-conscious design and innovation in a critical public facility,” said General Services Director Marko Medved. “This building reflects the county’s deep commitment to sustainability across every facet of design and construction.”

The all-electric building includes rooftop solar panels combined with additional renewable energy from a nearby parking structure’s solar installation. Together, the systems are expected to generate 805,000 kWh annually, offsetting roughly 44% of the building’s energy needs. A 30kW energy storage system shifts solar power to peak demand periods.

Water conservation measures include drought-tolerant landscaping and smart irrigation that cut outdoor water use by 67%, while low-flow fixtures reduce indoor consumption by more than 40%.

The project achieved an 88% construction waste reduction across six categories and reduced embodied carbon by 23% through low-carbon building materials, according to the county.