The Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic in was awarded a prestigious Two Green Globes certification from the Green Building Initiative for its sustainable design and energy-efficient features.

The certification, awarded in September, highlights the clinic’s achievements in resource efficiency, reduced environmental impact and improved occupant wellness. The certification process involves comprehensive third-party review to evaluate elements including energy use, water management, indoor environmental quality and overall project management.

Developed by Hunt Companies Hawai‘i, the $130 million, 88,675-square-foot outpatient clinic opened in April and serves approximately 87,000 veterans across O‘ahu and the Pacific. The state-of-the-art facility provides a range of medical services, including primary and mental health care, X-ray and diagnostic services, a pharmacy and specialized care.

The clinic’s sustainable features played an important role in securing the Two Green Globes certification. One key project element is fiber cement siding that enhances insulation and durability while reducing energy consumption. The building’s architectural design also incorporates natural light through strategically placed windows that cut down on the need for artificial lighting. The surrounding landscape also features drought-tolerant native plants to help reduce water usage.

Another standout feature is the clinic’s advanced photovoltaic system, which includes over 1,300 solar panels integrated into the roof and a steel-frame canopy, generating 567 kW of electricity — enough to power a significant portion of the facility while providing shaded walkways for veterans and staff. The clinic also includes 19 electric vehicle charging stations.

Nan Inc. served as the general contractor on the project, working alongside Ferraro Choi and Associates Ltd., the project architect, and Hunt Building Co., which managed construction.