MVRDV has unveiled the first images of its "Sun Rock" project, an energy complex that is attentive to the environment and design. The characteristics of this particular "mountain", from its shape to its facade, emphasize the generation of solar energy as efficiently as possible, participating in Taiwan's green transition.
Sun Rock's main function is to incorporate structures and store energy. Solar panels cover almost its entire surface, and the building can produce around 1 million kWh of green energy every year.
A solar mountain
The area chosen for this new facility (to be built by Taipower) receives a significant amount of sun exposure throughout the year. For this reason, the particular rounded shape of Sun Rock is designed to maximize the amount of sunlight used to produce energy. On the south side, the structure slopes gently, providing a large expanse of land exposed to direct sunlight during the central hours of the day.
"The façade takes full advantage of this solar potential by using a series of folds that support the photovoltaic panels on their top surface. These folds help to support the photovoltaic panels, which are arranged in such a way as to take advantage of the strategically placed windows. The folding angles on all areas of the facade are regulated to maximize the energy collected by the panels, " explain in MVRDV.
The innovation will add over 4000 square meters of photovoltaic panels to the "solar mountain". The modules will produce nearly one million kilowatt hours of clean energy every year. It goes without saying that they will make the building completely self-contained.
Other features of the structure
The project is currently under development. The team is still considering alternative design choices that would lead to an even larger area of photovoltaic panels, with an estimated power output for the grid. up to 1,7 million kWh per year based on calculations.
In summary: Sun Rock will measure 12.900m (approximately 138.000 square feet). It will contain the "Data Room," a giant atrium with real-time displays of data on Taipower's operations and the amount of renewable energy generated by the company. On the first floor, a gallery space will offer the public a view of the "engine room" which makes it possible to capture energy.
The Taipower headquarters will be located on the top floor of this building, which includes an executive elevator lobby as well as two conference rooms, as well as a fourth-level outdoor terrace with trees for Taipower tourists and employees.
