In recent years, the world has seen a surge in the adoption of renewable energy technologies, with solar power leading the charge. As concerns about climate change and energy sustainability grow, integrating solar-powered systems into buildings has become increasingly popular. Not only do these systems help reduce carbon emissions, but they also offer significant cost savings in the long run.
Here are five solar-powered systems that are revolutionising the way buildings consume and generate energy:
Traditional solar panels have been a staple in the renewable energy industry for decades. However, solar roof tiles take solar integration to the next level by seamlessly blending into the architecture of a building. These tiles, made from photovoltaic materials, are designed to resemble conventional roofing materials such as slate or terracotta. By replacing traditional roofing materials with solar tiles, buildings can generate electricity while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Google's headquarters, famously known as the Googleplex, located in Mountain View, California, has been at the forefront of sustainability initiatives. In 2017, Google partnered with Tesla to install solar roof tiles across several buildings within the Googleplex campus. The project aimed to demonstrate Google's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable building practices while integrating innovative solar technology seamlessly into the architecture.
BIPV takes solar integration beyond rooftop installations. BIPV systems are designed to serve as integral components of a building's structure, such as windows, facades, or walls. These systems not only generate electricity but also provide shading and insulation, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the building.
Located in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is often touted as one of the greenest buildings in the world. The building's south-facing facade is equipped with solar panels which are seamlessly integrated into the glass curtain wall system. These BIPV panels not only generate renewable electricity but also contribute to the building's iconic appearance while providing natural daylighting for occupants.
Solar canopies and awnings provide dual functionality by serving as shading structures and solar energy generators. These installations are commonly found in parking lots, outdoor recreational areas, and building entrances. By harnessing sunlight that would otherwise go unused, solar canopies and awnings not only generate electricity but also provide shade and shelter for people and vehicles.
The solar carport project, inaugurated in 2018, consists of multiple solar canopies installed across the airport's parking area, covering approximately 20 acres. These canopies are equipped with photovoltaic panels that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. The electricity generated by the solar panels is used to power various airport operations, including terminal buildings, lighting systems, and baggage handling facilities.
Solar ventilation systems utilise solar energy to power fans and ventilators that regulate indoor air quality and temperature. These systems are particularly beneficial in buildings with high energy consumption for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). By harnessing solar power to assist with ventilation, buildings can reduce their reliance on grid electricity and lower their carbon footprint.
The solar ventilation system at BedZED is integrated into the design of the buildings to promote natural ventilation and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling systems. One notable feature of the system is the use of solar chimneys, which harness solar energy to facilitate airflow within the buildings. The solar chimneys at BedZED consist of vertical shafts or ducts located on the rooftops of residential units. These shafts are painted to and eliminate reflection of sunlight absorb solar radiation effectively. As sunlight heats the air inside the shafts, thermal buoyancy causes the air to rise, creating a natural convection current.
Unlike photovoltaic systems that convert sunlight into electricity, solar water heating systems directly absorb solar energy to heat water stored in tanks or circulation loops. These systems are highly efficient and cost-effective, especially in regions with abundant sunlight. Solar water heating systems can significantly reduce energy costs associated with water heating, making them a popular choice for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings alike.
Each home in DLSC is outfitted with a solar collector system mounted on the roof. These collectors absorb solar radiation and transfer heat to a heat transfer fluid, usually a glycol-water mixture. The heated fluid is then circulated through a network of pipes to a centralised thermal storage facility located underground. The underground storage facility stores excess summer heat. In winter, this stored heat is circulated to homes for heating and hot water.
Solar-powered systems provide numerous innovative solutions for buildings aiming to decrease their environmental footprint and energy usage.
