In the main artery of Vilnius, Lithuania, a landmark project stands as a testament to the fusion of innovation and sustainability. The BOD GROUP’s latest building, equipped with a 310 kW (~1675 sq.m.) solar PV facade, alongside its 850 kW capacity including the rooftop, isn’t just an architectural marvel but a powerhouse of green energy, projected to generate around 593.09 MWh annually.
The Logic Behind Integrated PV
Choosing to integrate solar panels into the building’s design was a natural decision for BOD GROUP, given its subsidiary Solitek’s reputation as a leading PV module manufacturer. This initiative marks the group’s second venture into sustainable construction, featuring an advanced combination of PV systems and geothermal solutions, thereby achieving independence from the central city heating system and A++ building energy efficiency. This not only benefits the environment but also promises economic gains for both the building owners and the tenants.
Economic and Environmental Payoffs
The investment into this project, despite its higher upfront cost (~45% more than standard PV installations), is justified by the significant long-term savings and environmental benefits. The building’s solar facade not only aims to cut down carbon emissions but also anticipates substantial reductions in electricity expenses.
The anticipated payback period, affected by fluctuating electricity prices, stands at about 8 years. This foresight means the building will enjoy free electricity for over two decades, supported by a 30-year warranty on the solar panels.
Let’s get Technical!
The facade incorporates roughly 310 kW, or 837 solar panels, with an estimated annual output of 183.81 MWh, distributed across all four facades: North façade – ~9,05 MWh, East façade – ~76,6 MWh, South façade – ~24,41 MWh, and West façade – ~73,75 MWh.
Having in mind the opposite facades are structured the same way, this demonstrates that even less optimal orientations can still contribute significantly to power generation. In other words, the façade can pay off for itself.
The façade construction which is mounted on sandwich type panels was developed individually for this particular project by construction company Production Line. The project developers are happy that system is easily adaptable for similar projects in the future and is able to keep the homogeneous architectural aesthetics of the building visualized by experienced industrial architect Tomas Rasiulis.
Lesson Learnt
The integration of solar panels into the façade represented a complex challenge, involving meticulous planning, technical precision, and innovative construction methods.
Perhaps the most critical aspect of this project’s success was the collaborative effort among architect, engineers, and construction professionals. From the initial design phases to the final installation, the project demanded a high degree of coordination and communication among all parties involved.
The engineering team hopes that real estate stakeholders will learn more about PV technology. This knowledge should help them execute future projects more quickly and efficiently. By understanding PV better, they can minimize the need for changes and reduce communication issues.
Looking Forward
This project exemplifies the potential of integrating renewable energy into urban development. As the world leans towards sustainability, the BOD GROUP building in Vilnius illustrates the feasibility and aesthetic compatibility of such initiatives, paving the way for future projects.
Stay Informed with Solar Explain
At Solar Explain, we keep a pulse on the Building Integrated PV market. We invite real estate developers and interested parties to explore our Advanced Building Integrated PV courses, designed to facilitate the seamless implementation of similar projects.
