Bespoke movable solar shading
"In a world of decreasing natural resources and rapidly changing technology, we saw it as a duty to join the search for optimal energy solutions in buildings. Commercial and environmental concerns were carefully balanced in the specification for our new Schoental Works Yard building, which was designed to be both architecturally and ecologically in tune with a differentiated energy supply and represents a real showcase of modern technologies". So said S. Sigrist, Energy Services Manager at the Municipal Works in Winterthur, Switzerland.
External shading had already been included in the initial plans for the South East façade to protect against solar heat gain and maximise natural light. However, the Municipal Authorities and architect Theo Hotz of Zurich were convinced that the shading panels could also be used to produce renewable energy. A feasibility study prior to final specification supported their view that conditions were ideal for the photovoltaic production of electricity. Consequently, the municipal, canton and federal authorities gave the green light for the financing of the project so that today electricity is produced by solar panels on a daily basis.
The Colt glass louvre system at the Municipal Works, Winterthur was designed to meet the dual-purpose objectives of solar control and solar energy. The glass louvres are mounted in front of the building fenestration and cover an area 144 metres long by 8 metres high and incorporate photovoltaic cells on the external faces to give a total solar panel area of 320 square metres. An automatic control system ensures that the glass louvres pivot to track the Sun's movement and guarantee optimal protection against solar heat gain and glare, whilst at the same time providing the best possible opportunities for generation of electricity.
Early recorded data was extremely encouraging. For instance, on 9th September, a sunny day with some cloud, 156 kilowatts/hour of electrical energy was produced during the midday period - almost a third of the building's electricity requirements. In bright sunlight the photovoltaic cells will provide a maximum output power of 47kW to the power network.
Colt glass louvres have been widely specified throughout Europe not only for their daylight provision, solar control and noise attenuation but also for their aesthetic qualities. They are part of the wider Colt portfolio of daylighting and solar control products, which includes roof mounted and structural glazing systems as well as canopies, fixed solar shading and solar blinds.
