The Sun Emerald, a seven-story office structure in eastern Norway, exemplifies the transformative potential of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) in commercial architecture. Finished in 2016, this project shows how solar technology can be smoothly incorporated into building design to achieve sustainability aims while maintaining architectural elegance.

Project Overview

The Sun Emerald provides workspace for about 450 people and covers a total facade area of 900 square meters. At the start of the design process, architects proposed integrating photovoltaic panels into the building’s facade to create a sustainable and energy-efficient structure. Initially, the plan involved using blue polycrystalline silicon panels with customized dimensions to fit the complex facade design. However, this approach proved costly due to the need for non-standard module sizes.

To address this challenge, the architects switched to thin-film photovoltaic modules of standard sizes, adjusting the facade dimensions to accommodate these panels. This decision significantly reduced costs, making the project more economically viable while preserving its sustainability objectives.

Technical Specifications

The Sun Emerald uses amorphous silicon thin-film photovoltaic glass modules with a transparency level of 20%. These modules allow natural daylight to enter the building, improving interior illumination while reducing dependence on artificial lighting. The roof area covered by these modules spans 168 square meters and generates approximately 7,700 kWh annually with a total installed capacity of 6.5 kW.

The facade installation, which makes up the majority of the BIPV system, produces around 70,000 kWh of electricity annually with a total capacity of 100 kW. The thin-film technology was chosen for its uniform appearance and ability to perform efficiently under diffuse light conditions—an important consideration given Norway’s northern latitude and variable sunlight.

Energy Performance and Sustainability

The Sun Emerald demonstrates how BIPV systems can contribute significantly to a building’s energy needs. The electricity generated by the facade helps offset operational costs and reduces the building’s carbon footprint. Additionally, the integration of solar panels into the facade rather than as rooftop installations ensures that solar generation aligns closely with peak office energy consumption during daylight hours.

This synchronization between energy production and usage is particularly advantageous for commercial buildings like The Sun Emerald, where daytime energy demand is high. The project also showcases how thoughtful design can overcome challenges posed by shading from surrounding structures by distributing power generation across multiple facade orientations.

Economic and Architectural Impact

One of the project’s outstanding features is its cost-effective approach to BIPV integration. By opting for standard-sized thin-film modules rather than custom-designed panels, the architects were able to reduce expenses without compromising on functionality or aesthetics. This practical solution challenges the perception that BIPV systems are prohibitively expensive, demonstrating that careful planning can make them accessible even within budget constraints.

Architecturally, The Sun Emerald achieves a harmonious balance between sustainability and visual appeal. The thin-film modules contribute to a sleek and modern facade design while serving as ventilated cladding that replaces traditional exterior materials. This dual functionality enhances both energy efficiency and structural performance.

Lessons Learned and Future Implications

The Sun Emerald provides valuable insights into successful BIPV implementation:

• Early Incorporation: Considering solar technology during initial design stages allows architects to optimize building plans for energy generation without compromising aesthetics.
• Flexibility: Adjusting architectural specifications to accommodate standard photovoltaic products can reduce costs while maintaining project goals.
• Commercial Applicability: Office buildings are ideal candidates for BIPV systems due to their large facade areas and high daytime energy consumption patterns.

This project sets a precedent for incorporating renewable energy into urban environments without sacrificing architectural integrity. As technology advances and costs continue to decline, similar projects are likely to become more common in commercial construction.