| Category | Institutional |
|---|---|
| Year | 2009 |
| Size | 3,000sqm |
Projects
Zero Energy Building at BCA Academy
A Test-bed for Green Technologies
The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Academy Zero Energy Building is an experimental project for the exploration of energy-use strategies and green education programmes in tropical climates. An extensive renovation converted a three-storey institutional building into an energy self-sufficient school and workplace.
The project works twofold to achieve net-zero energy consumption and generate 100% of the institution’s energy needs by means of solar power. First, passive systems are implemented to reduce building cooling loads. Secondly, these are supplemented by intelligent active feedback systems that require minimal dependence on natural resources.
Details
Passive design moderates the building’s solar heat gain and natural ventilation by means of green walls, a green roof, shading devices, low-E glass, solar film coatings, and composite wall panels. Meanwhile, mirror ducts and a system of light shelves, pipes and tubes carry natural daylight deep into the building’s spaces, and an exhaust system channels hot air from each level through the building’s walls and roof to be dispelled by an exhaust chimney.
The success of ZEB demonstrated the feasibility of sustainable building design with minimal dependence on limited resources, that is resilient to climate change and provide for user comfort.
The green roof lowers the temperature from direct radiation heat gain.
Surplus power generated by grid-tied systems is distributed to the rest of BCA Academy before any excess is supplied back to the grid.
Green walls reduce heat transfer from the building envelope into the interior. Temperature sensors monitor both surface and ambient temperature.
A Building Management System functions as an active feedback mechanism, monitoring real-time continuous data streams to maintain user comfort and minimal power usage. It utilises photovoltaic panels to generate 100% clean renewable energy. So that none of this energy is wasted, any excess power is distributed to the BCA Academy campus or into the city grid.
The Zero Energy Building contains offices, research laboratories, classrooms and an open hall for larger functions. A visitor centre performs as a community educational facility, showcasing the technologies and strategies incorporated into the green building’s design.
Specialist Services
Integrated services provided for this project.
AWARDS
| 2012 |
The Chicago Athenaeum Green Good Design Awards (Winner) Zero Energy Building @ BCA Academy |
|---|---|
| 2011 |
Minister for National Development R&D Awards (Distinguished Award) Zero Energy Building@BCA Academy |
| 2010 |
BCI Green Design Awards Green Leadership Award Zero Energy Building @ BCA Academy |