Redefining Sustainability with a Retrofited Solar Façade

SKALA BiPV solar active modules

Project by

Reinhardpartner Architekten
Planer AG
FT Swiss Fassaden Technik AG

Location

Bern, Switzerland

Photography

@AVANCIS / Olaf Rohl

Products used

Please get in touch to discuss incorporating SKALA solar modules into your next project: [email protected]

  • The Holenackerstraße residential towers in Bern featuring a striking retrofit solar facade created with SKALA BIPV Bronze 3001 modules, blending aesthetics with energy generation
  • An aerial view of the Holenackerstraße high-rise in Bern, highlighting the large-scale implementation of a SKALA BIPV Bronze 3001 retrofit solar facade in an urban setting
  • A close-up view of the Holenackerstraße residential tower in Bern, showcasing the SKALA BIPV Bronze 3001 retrofit solar facade seamlessly integrated into the high-rise exterior

Redefining Sustainability with a Retrofitted Energy Generating Façade

The Holenackerstraße residential towers are a testament to how aesthetics and sustainability can coexist.

The groundbreaking refurbishment of a high-rise residential development in Bern has created Switzerland’s tallest continuous solar façade.

The challenge

The goal of the significant refurbishment was to modernise the 54-metre-high concrete façade strips on two high-rise residential buildings. This presented a unique opportunity to retrofit an energy generating façade while complying with Switzerland’s rigorous fire safety regulations.

The solution

SKALA Bronze solar modules were seamlessly integrated into the building envelope. Covering a total area of 672 m² with 640 modules, this façade not only enhances the architectural character of the towers but also generates a significant amount of renewable energy.

Impact

The result is Switzerland’s highest continuous solar façade, delivering an annual energy yield of 51.1 MWh—enough to power around 15 average Australian households.

The project demonstrates the potential of retrofitting solar technology into existing urban housing, which can be achieved in Australia, too! By blending innovation with environmental responsibility, the Holenackerstraße project showcases how solar façades are redefining the possibilities of sustainable design, offering a forward-thinking blueprint for urban developments in Australia.

 

Please get in touch to discuss incorporating SKALA solar modules into your next project: [email protected]

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