MechChem Africa September-October 2024

⎪ PowerGen,PetroChem and Sustainable energy management ⎪

SA’s first solar facade skyscraper Energy Partners, in collaboration with Fairvest Limited, has now completed the Metalbox solar-façade skyscraper in Auckland Park, Johannesburg. B uilt with integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) that generate up to 300 MWh per year, the Metalbox skyscraper project is “history in the making” says Energy Partners’ Chief Executive Officer, Manie de Waal. Energy Partners, Power, “Both systems utilise BIPV technology, which we’ve seen integrated into several iconic buildings around the world, including Japan’s Solar Ark and Denmark’s Copenhagen International School. This tech nology transforms conventional building parts into solar systems, enhancing functionality, aesthetics, and ultimately improved return on investment.”

lation.” Shading had to be carefully modelled to accurately predict generation forecasts, and the engineering design includes various aspects to ensure maintainability over the long term. Additionally, the project required close col laboration with regulatory authorities and had to undergo a glint and glare study to mitigate solar glare effects on neighbouring surround ings, building plan approval and embedded generation approval. “The Metalbox project exemplifies the Energy Partners ethos – that we are wholly committed to leveraging cutting-edge technol ogy that pushes the boundaries of what’s pos sible in creating cleaner energy solutions. “The project represents a monumental leap towards a more sustainable, energy-resilient future for South Africa, and we are deeply honoured to be part of the journey.” https://energypartners.co.za Fairvest Limited's Metalbox is South Africa's first solar facade skyscraper.

Fairvest Limited’s Chief Operating Officer, Riaz Kader, adds: “We are committed to in vesting in sustainable energy and water infra structure to de-risk our portfolio by providing a degree of energy and water independence whilst lowering the cost of electricity for our Company and tenants.” Metalbox, standing 80 m tall and with just under 15 000 m 2 of gross leasable area, is one of the largest commercial office properties in Fairvest Limited's portfolio. The project incor porates two solar systems. Monocrystalline panels on the building’s sides provide energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal, performing well even in low-light conditions, while the roof fea tures carport-type panels, optimising sunlight exposure while offering weatherproofing to services located on the roof. Says Charl du Plessis, General Manager,

The business case for solar, confirms du Plessis, has three main drivers including cost, generation potential and alternative cost of electricity. “With the ever-increasing cost of grid electricity,” he notes, “a tipping point has been reached where even capex-intensive projects with lower generation potential are feasible.” He adds that the project was not without its challenges: “The top priority for us was ensuring the safety of our installation team, who worked from lowered platforms,” says du Plessis. “Then we had to achieve adequate torque on the clamps for environmental resilience – no mean feat considering that the solar panels had to cover a total area of 1 259 m², making this South Africa’s largest custom-built commercial instal

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