Getting energy directly from the sun is becoming more popular every year, and it seems that big companies and homeowners alike are interested in it. From time to time we hear about new ways to use photovoltaic panels, and one has just unveiled a “solar rock” project that is expected to produce one million kilowatt hours per year.
These ambitious proposals were presented by the Dutch company MVRDV, which wants to create a building entirely covered by solar panels. This structure is to be the already mentioned “solar rock,” which was originally designed by Taiwan’s state-owned energy company Taipower as a tourist attraction. As you can see in the photos, the facade is imposing and slightly rounded (hence the name).
However, it was soon discovered that the site where the “Sun Rock” was to stand was exposed to strong sunlight year-round. Combined with the characteristic shape of the building, this maximizes the amount of energy received, which will then be converted into electricity. In addition, the panels will have adjustable tilt angles to best match the current position of the sun.
The building itself, of course, will have windows and vents to allow natural light and air to enter. No word yet on how many solar panels the designers decide to install – the press release mentions that the total area used for energy generation will be 4,000 m2. In practice, it will mean the production of one million kilowatt-hours of clean energy per year, which corresponds, according to the MVRDV, to the energy produced by burning 85 tons of crude oil.
In addition, the “solar rock” could be expanded with additional panels, which is expected to increase the level of energy generated to 1.7 million kWh per year. The biggest benefit of the investment, however, is the ability to easily transfer excess electricity to the general grid.
“Sun Rock is to have approx. 12,900 m2, and the building will include a warehouse, repair shop and offices. The first floor will be reserved for public use. This Dutch-Taiwanese project is scheduled to open in 2024.
