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From New Buildings to Retrofit Projects: Solar Facade


Systems for a Circular and Low-Carbon Architecture
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Written by Enrique Tovar Published on January 12, 2024

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1/12/24, 4:18 PM From New Buildings to Retrofit Projects: Solar Facade Systems for a Circular and Low-Carbon Architecture | ArchDaily

The sun’s
Saveinfluence on human life encompasses multiple dimensions, from biological and
From New Buildings to Retrofit Projects: Solar Facade Systems for a Circular and Low-...
developmental aspects to religious-mythological connotations in civilizations such as the Egyptians
and Romans. Moreover, this influence extends to its use as a natural resource within the realm of
science. In scientific pursuits, the continuous search to harness the sun as an energy source has been a
constant throughout the years. Within this context, the discovery of the photovoltaic effect and its
application have paved the way in the history of solar panels, starting from the first observations of
Becquerel to the initial prototypes of Charles Fritts in the 19th century.

Nowadays, the energy obtained from the sun through devices such as solar panels has become one of
the most widely used sources in regions like North America and Europe, contributing to the efforts for
a complete transition to clean energy. The momentum in this transition has motivated the
development of new technologies, such as SolarLab facade systems, that challenge the preconceived
idea of what a solar panel looks like and where it can be installed. These systems converge with
architecture to integrate them as aesthetic elements, serving as cladding for both retrofit projects and
new buildings.

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1/12/24, 4:18 PM From New Buildings to Retrofit Projects: Solar Facade Systems for a Circular and Low-Carbon Architecture | ArchDaily

In contrast
Save to solar
From panels —whichtohave
New Buildings proven
Retrofit their efficiency
Projects: without
Solar Facade compromising
Systems for a Circularaesthetics—
and Low-...
Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) facade systems are a new alternative to traditional cladding
materials. They offer a high degree of design flexibility, providing a wide variety of customizable
options in terms of color, finish, texture, shapes, and sizes. Additionally, they are presented as a
sustainable and recyclable (up to 96%) European-made option, using between 30% and 80% recycled
resources and harnessing sustainable energy from wind, water, and the sun for their manufacture.

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1/12/24, 4:18 PM From New Buildings to Retrofit Projects: Solar Facade Systems for a Circular and Low-Carbon Architecture | ArchDaily

The system
Save is seamlessly integrated
From New Buildings to for on-site
Retrofit electricity
Projects: Solarproduction with aesthetic
Facade Systems flexibility
for a Circular through
and Low-...
three types of installation systems. The rain screen protects the structure, enhancing durability and
reducing operating costs. Simultaneously, the curtain wall system replaces panels and glazing on the
facade while generating electricity. Finally, louvers —also known as brise-soleil— are installed on the
facade, offering an effective solution for controlling solar radiation and creating light and shade
effects. The versatility of each of these systems makes them suitable for both new construction and
retrofits, with low carbon emissions.

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To achieve
Save carbon
Fromneutrality, architects
New Buildings and Projects:
to Retrofit stakeholders
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Facade their
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materials and construction. In this collaborative process, SolarLab contributes by providing design
Sustainability Technology
support and free CAD and BIM tools, making it easier for designers to make decisions when
incorporating BIPV facades into the design. Materials Metaverse

In this context, solar facade systems add a new dimension. At Powerhouse Telemark, designed by
Snøhetta, for example; the system generates enough electricity to offset the embodied energy and
operational consumption for years to come. In this project, custom-designed and fabricated black SELECTED PRODUCTS
ventilated and lightweight cladding panels were used. The solar facade, featuring a glass finish and
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“ Save
By working closely with architects, engineers, and contractors, we
From New Buildings to Retrofit Projects: Solar Facade Systems for a Circular and Low-...

ensure that the solar facade maintains the original architectural


vision while providing a durable and sustainable solution. -SolarLab ”
In addition, as an alternative to new construction, retrofit projects like Trifolium are gaining relevance
in a more sustainable future. They are becoming increasingly common and driving proposals that not
only optimize resources but also present a relevant aesthetic. BIPV facade solutions offer a significant
opportunity in these projects to reduce CO₂ emissions and achieve carbon neutrality.

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With 85%
Saveto 95% of New
From the European building
Buildings to Retrofitstock still expected
Projects: to be
Solar Facade in use by
Systems for2050, it is imperative
a Circular and Low-... to
address retrofitting with a sustainable approach. For that reason, solar facade systems offer promising
scope for action in the green transition, given that buildings account for a high percentage of global
energy consumption.

By adopting new approaches to harnessing renewable resources, we are witnessing a significant


paradigm shift in building conception and design. This change redefines how the elements that make
up a building are perceived, overcoming the traditional dichotomy between aesthetics and
functionality. This is where Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) facade systems emerge as an
option to achieve a sustainable built environment.

To learn more about SolarLab and its solutions, visit their website or refer to the product catalog.

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SolarLab SolarLab
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SolarLab
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About this author
Save From New Buildings to Retrofit Projects: Solar Facade Systems for a Circular and Low-...

Enrique Tovar
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News Articles Sustainability Facade System Solar Panels

Materials Low Carbon Retrofit Technology Facade Details

Cite: Enrique Tovar. "From New Buildings to Retrofit Projects: Solar Facade Systems for a Circular and Low-
Carbon Architecture" 12 Jan 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed 12 Jan 2024.
<https://www.archdaily.com/1011349/from-new-buildings-to-retrofit-projects-solar-facade-systems-for-a-
circular-and-low-carbon-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

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