In the constant search for sustainable solutions, architecture has evolved to integrate clean and efficient technologies. One of the most innovative trends is the integration of solar panels on buildings. This is a perfect combination of functionality and aesthetics. This article will explore how incorporating solar panels into architectural design helps the environment and creates visually appealing buildings.
Uses of solar energy in architecture
The integration of solar panels on buildings helps them become part of the structure, taking advantage of solar energy to generate electricity and having a very positive impact on the aesthetic and functional design of the project. So, the location of the panels considerably influences that last point. There are several places where they can be integrated. Here are some of the most common uses:
- Solar panels on roofs, rooftops or terraces: This is the most common and recommended way, although it is not always possible. You can mount them either tilted (to take full advantage of solar energy collection) or horizontally (flat).
- Solar tiles: Solar tiles are an alternative to traditional solar panels. So, you can install these tiles on the roof and look like conventional tiles. However, they are actually designed to capture solar energy and convert it into electricity.
- Solar lighting: Solar lighting uses solar energy to charge batteries that can be used to power lights and other devices. This technology is especially useful in remote areas where there is no access to the electrical grid and in public lighting in parks, streets, etc.
- Solar panels on windows: These replace windows and are also transparent. So, they allow light to pass through them while capturing energy.
- Solar panels on awnings, carports and other covers: This is another common place where they are usually installed, especially in parking areas or outdoor terraces. Also on pergolas and sheds.
In any case, it is advisable to consider solar energy from the early stages of the building design to make the process much simpler and to ensure aesthetics and functionality.
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Some of the most notable buildings that use solar energy
Several buildings worldwide have successfully combined solar panels on buildings with innovative architectural designs.
The Pixel Building (Australia)
The Pixel building is a sustainable and energy-efficient construction located in the urban area of Melbourne, Australia. This is the country’s first zero carbon dioxide emissions building. Besides, it has the capacity to generate energy and reuse rainwater. The team of architects Studio505 developed this 840-square-meter construction in 2010. So, it has become one of its most ambitious and significant projects.
The sustainability of the building and its management of the use of resources gave it a perfect rating of 105 points from the Green Building Council of Australia. The main reason is its green construction, as it has one of the most advanced systems for water treatment. On the other hand, its colourful and bright façade makes the Pixel building an example of innovation and design.
Translucent double panels and glass cover the building’s concrete structure. This design allows natural light and shade to enter the interior. Also, it acts as thermal insulation and provides ventilation and natural energyBoth ventilation and natural lighting are key elements to minimise the energy needs of buildings.
Inside, the plant cover that covers its roof stands out, where rainwater is reused for the irrigation system of its gardens. Two energy generation systems are located on the roof. They consist of solar panels and vertical axis wind turbines. Initially designed as a prototype for futuristic offices, the project has evolved significantly. It is now one of the most sustainable and resource-efficient buildings, featuring a cutting-edge water management system.
Vancouver Public Library
The Vancouver Public Library, designed by Moshe Saddie, is one of Canada’s most iconic libraries, with a collection of two million items. It covers an entire city block in downtown Vancouver and is reminiscent of the Roman Coliseum in shape. The library’s 37,000 square meters are mostly lit by natural light and its rooftop has a green roof.
The Vancouver Central Library, Canada’s third-largest public library, opened to the public in 1995. Today it has a diverse collection of approximately 1,300,000 items, including books, periodicals, CDs, DVDs, etc.
The prestigious Canadian architect Moshe Safdie designed this building, taking inspiration from the Roman Coliseum. For this reason, it has a circular layout and numerous arches that line the facades.The building has seven floors. It is topped by a green roof measuring 1,850 m². The renowned landscaper Cornelia Oberlander designed this green roof as a hanging garden. The 37,000 square meters of the library are mostly illuminated by natural light
The complex features two large atriums in its south wing. One is exterior, with steps that allow for theatre and musical performances. The other is interior, but brightly lit by a glass skylight, where visitors can enjoy coffee or a meal at one of its cafes or restaurants. The tower adjacent to the central building, which is occupied by several businesses, offices, cafes and restaurants, is striking.
The Sun Moon Mansion (China)
The Sun Moon Mansion is located in the city of Dezhou, Shandong province. It is the largest building in the world that uses solar energy to supply itself. The complex spans a total area of 75,000 m². Comprehensive solar energy use is combined with advanced energy-saving technologies in areas like hot water supply, heating, and cooling. This combination increases its efficiency by 88%.
The Sun Moon Mansion includes a range of facilities. These include rooms, exhibition halls, meeting and training rooms, a scientific research centre, and a hotel. All are powered by renewable energy.
Sun-Moon Mansion stands out for:
- Electricity savings of 70%.
- 60% savings on heating and cooling.
- By integrating all the adopted measures, it is possible to reduce 8,762.4 tons of polluting emissions.
- Use of green technologies both inside and out. For example, the glass is an insulating and soundproofing skin that inhibits the formation of frost or dew.
Its appearance is based on the pictographs “Sun” and “Moon” of ancient China. A solar disk on the rooftop connects the four buildings, forming a ‘quadrilateral courtyard’. This design facilitates the installation of solar components. Its design scheme reflects its innovative character, a distinctive feature of this solar construction.
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