Solar Technology Solutions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAME

DESCRIPTION

 

SUPPLIERS / MANUFACTURERS

USEFUL REFERENCES

APPROPRIATE APPLICATION
(Important considerations)

CONSTRUCTION IMPACT (Degree to which the solution impacts upon building design)

CONSTRAINTS / BARRIERS / RISKS

APPROPRIATE CLIMATE

INDICATIVE COST
(Note - depends upon scale)

INDICATIVE ENERGY SAVINGS
(Note - depends upon scale)

DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS

Thermal chimneys

The use of static chimneys at high level to provide natural ventilation in buildings. Variations in height between the chimney and the occupied space allow the creation of temperature differentials, which in turn promote natural ventilation via the buoyancy effect. Enhancements can be made by installing fans within the chimney. This fan could be solar powered to reduce energy consumption.

Where natural ventilation strategy is suitable and major refurbishment or new build is being undertaken.
Can be combined with mech ventilation to create a 'mixed mode' solution.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Penetrations in existing roof may not be feasible.
Risk of downdraughts during cooler periods, good control system required.
Effective waterproofing of units is essential.
Cannot ensure comfort conditions at all times, may need back up air-conditioning.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Kangan Batman TAFE

Generally constructed within builders work package.

Weatherproof louvres supplied by Freeflow Louvres

Monodraught (UK), http://www.sunpipe.co.uk

Natural Ventilation in Non-Domestic Buildings, CIBSE AM10
VSII Technical Note: Natural ventilation

Solar chimneys

The use of solar boosted static chimneys at high level to provide natural ventilation in buildings. Solar gain to the chimney generates temperature differentials between the chimney and the room, which in turn promote natural ventilation via the buoyancy effect.

Where natural ventilation strategy is suitable and major refurbishment or new build is being undertaken.
Can be combined with mech ventilation to create a 'mixed mode' solution.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Penetrations in existing roof may not be feasible.
Risk of downdraughts during cooler periods, good control system required.
Effective waterproofing of units is essential.
Cannot ensure comfort conditions at all times, may need back up air-conditioning.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

5% - 20%

Building Research Establishment, UK
Monash Science Centre, Monash University
Victoria Barracks, Sydney

Generally constructed within builders work package.

Transparent material could be provided by any glazing supplier. Alternatively a polycarbonate surface could be used. Polycarbonate materials are supplied by Australian Polycarbonate Products Pty Ltd - (03) 9459 4806.

Weatherproof louvres supplied by Freeflow Louvres

Natural Ventilation in Non-Domestic Buildings, CIBSE AM10
VSII Technical Note: Natural ventilation

Automated natural ventilation

Natural ventilation enhanced by automated openings in facades through the use of actuators and control systems. Openings can be controlled based on internal/external conditions such as temperature, wind speed, precipitation etc
Openings could be windows or building integrated louvres.

Suitable where modifications are being made to existing windows or new windows being installed.
Existing control system would be beneficial.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Control requirements.
Thermal comfort parameters.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Numerous across Australia. Contact manufacturer for case studies.

Actuators are supplied by the following companies:
ACDC motors - www.acdcms.com.au
Arens international - ph 03 9583 2969
Kintrol Widow Control systems - ph 07 3390 1955
Leaweld - http://www.leaweld.co.nz/

Natural Ventilation in Non-Domestic Buildings, CIBSE AM10
VSII Technical Note: Natural ventilation

Atrium

Atria can offer a number of environmental benefits. The primary benefits are that they can provide a thermal buffer against external conditions and increase the amount of daylight entering a space. Atriums can also be use to collect solar heat for distribution into a building, and can be used to enhance airflow through a building using similar principles to a solar chimney. The incorporation of photovoltaics can allow the atrium to generate electricity and provide shading. Atriums should not be mechanically heated or cooled.

Only possible where extensions to buildings or new buildings are being developed.
Ideal where communal spaces without strict thermal conditions are required

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Cost.
Management of environmental strategy i.e. opening doors at correct times.
Maintenance of glazing systems

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

5% - 20%

Numerous across Australia. Contact manufacturer for case studies.

To improve thermal performance the following materials could be used:
ETFE Foil Pillows - Vector Foiltec 0395550727
Australian Polycarbonate Products Pty Ltd - (03) 9459 4806

Openings can be automated to control natural ventilation:
Refer to 'Automated natural ventilation' details

Natural Ventilation in Non-Domestic Buildings, CIBSE AM10
VSII Technical Note: Natural ventilation
www.greenbuilder.com/sourcebook/PassSolGuide1-2.html#heat

Trombe Wall / Thermal Storage Walls

A "Trombe" wall enables the collection of solar energy for use in the heating of buildings. Trombe walls consist of a multilayer construction, with a dark, heavyweight material on the inner surface and a transparent layer on the outer surface. Solar energy is transmitted through the outer surface and collected within the void. This heat is then transferred via conductance through the heavyweight wall, which then provides radiant heating for the occupants. Additionally, controlled venting can be provided to allow warm air collected in the void to be transferred to the space thereby offering a degree convective heating.

Extensive wall areas required.
Ideal for unglazed north walls.
Most suited to areas with evening occupancy due to thermal lag through wall.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Amount of wall area required to make system cost effective.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

1% - 5%

McCook House, Jerrabomberra, NSW
EcoBeach Youth Hostel, Apollo Bay, VIC
Zion National Park Visitor and Transportation Centre
Springdale, Utah

Standard building products.

http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy04osti/36277.pdf

Buffer space/sun space

Similar to a Trombe wall, a buffer or sun space can be used to protect the external façade from prevailing conditions. Additionally, these features can collect solar energy for use within a building. An example of a sun space would be a heavily glazed, unheated, enclosed area adjacent to the northern aspect of a building. Heat collected in the sun space could be utilised when required through a series of openings in the external facade.

Suitable for extensions or new buildings as a transient breakout space and source of heating.
Ideal for connection to a regularly used space i.e. creche. Buffer space can be occupied when conditions are ok, heat flow can be controlled by occupants.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Cost.
Management of environmental strategy i.e. opening doors at correct times.
Maintenance of glazing systems

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

5% - 20%

UNEP International Environmental Technology Centre, Japan
HKU Graduate House, Hong Kong

Standard building products.

www.greenbuilder.com/sourcebook/PassSolGuide1-2.html#heat

Double skin façade

A double façade acts in a similar way to a Trombe wall or a sunspace, though is generally appropriate for multi level scenarios

Double facades are suited to multistorey buildings.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Complexity of design.
Cost.

ALL VIC

$50,000 +

5% - 20%

RMIT Textiles Building, Melbourne, VIC

Standard building products.

www.battlemccarthy.com/Double%20Skin%20Website/analysis/doubleskinanalysis.htm
www.cibse.org/pdfs/investigation.pdf

Light pipe

Light pipes provide daylight to areas of buildings that are not adjacent to an external surface. The units consist of a metal tube with a very reflective internal surface. At the outer end of the tube a translucent material allows daylight to enter. The inner end of the tube is fitted with a diffuser to allow light to be distributed evenly within the space.

Light pipes are ideal for deep plan spaces or internal rooms where daylight is not available.

"BOLT ON" FEATURE

Penetration through existing roof may lead to waterproofing issues.

ALL VIC

$1,000 - $5,000

1% - 5%

Numerous across Australia. Contact manufacturer for case studies.

http://www.solatube.com.au/

 

Combined light pipe and thermal chimney

These units are currently available in the UK. They are designed to provide both natural ventilation (wind driven) and daylighting via three separate compartments.

These units are ideal for deep plan spaces or internal rooms where access to an external wall is not available and natural ventilation is required.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Penetration through existing roof may lead to waterproofing issues.
Availability of units is currently limited in Australia.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Priory Neighbourhood Centre, Hastings, East Sussex

Sunpipe, www.sunpipe.co.uk

 

Passive downdraught evaporative cooling (PDEC)

Principles of natural evaporative cooling of air can be incorporated into a building via the provision of down draft towers, which can operate naturally or can be mechanically assisted. These units pre-cool fresh air prior to entry into the building.

Suitable to naturally ventilated buildings with high cooling requirements i.e. classrooms.
Can be used in conjunction with thermal storage devices.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

High risk strategy, may not provide adequate comfort conditions.
Successful demonstration projects are limited.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

CH2, Melbourne, VIC
New Stock Exchange, Malta

Standard building products.

www.arch.mcgill.ca/prof/bourke/arch672/fall2002/evapor.htm

Transpired solar air heater

Transpired solar air heaters can be roof or wall mounted. The units are used to collect and distribute solar energy into a building for heating purposes. The units consist of a multilayer construction, with a perforated sheet on the outer surface, a small void then a standard roof or wall system. The air within the void is heated and then distributed either naturally or with the assistance of a fan to the occupied space. These systems can be engineered to work in reverse and provide passive cooling and natural ventilation during warm periods.

Significant wall or roof area required therefore suitable for facades with few windows or rooflights.
Suitable where heat is required during the daytime in low heat load spaces (unless thermal store used which may reduce efficiency).

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Maintenance requirements i.e. accessible roof required.
Availability of solar energy does not align well with heating requirements.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Knox Environment Society, Community Nursery

There are currently no Australian suppliers/manufacturers. However, transpired solar air heaters are constructed of standard profile cladding with perforations and standard ventilation system components.
Solarwall™ by Conserval Engineering, Ontario, Canada

www.advancedbuildings.org/_frames/fr_t_vent_solar.htm
www.retscreen.net/download.php/ ang/119/0/Textbook_SAH.pdf

Solar air heater

Solar air heaters are generally proprietary systems that collect and distribute heat to a building. They generally consist of a roof or wall mounted box with a polycarbonate surface to allow solar energy to be collected, and a solar absorbing lower surface. A fan is used to circulate the air between the collection device and the building. The units can be configured to recirculate internal air or use fresh air and can also be used in reverse to provide some cooling during warm periods.

Suitable where heat is required during the daytime in low heat load spaces (unless thermal store used which may reduce efficiency).
Accessible roof required.

"BOLT ON" FEATURE

Maintenance requirements i.e. accessible roof required.
Availability of solar energy does not align well with heating requirements.

ALL VIC

$1,000 - $5,000

5% - 20%

Lumen Christi Primary School, Gippsland

Smart Roof' solar air heater
Sun lizard

www.retscreen.net/download.php/ ang/119/0/Textbook_SAH.pdf

Standard Photovoltaics

Photovoltaic units collect solar energy and convert it into electricity for use either within the building or for distribution to public infrastructure. The units are often roof mounted.

Suitable where used to drive low energy solutions in a standalone configuration such as fans to enhance natural ventilation, solar powered shading devices or air movement within solar collectors.
Also suitable where costs of installation can be offset against other reductions i.e. reduced electrical supplies to a remote building.

"BOLT ON" FEATURE

Cost may often outweigh benefits.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

Numerous across Australia.

BP Solar 1800 802 762
Kyocera 0738565388
Sharp
SCHOTT Australia Pty. Ltd (0) 284261600

http://www.wbdg.org/design/bipv.php
http://www.greenbuilder.com/sourcebook/Photovoltaic.html

Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

Building Integrated Photovoltaics can offset the cost premiums associated with this technology by allowing the units to act as part of the façade of the building. Again the units are used to collect solar energy and covert it to electricity.

Suitable where significant demonstration value exists.
Can be cost effective if significant façade modifications are being undertaken.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Cost may often outweigh benefits.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

1% - 5%

Hall Chadwick Centre, 120 Edward Street, Brisbane
4 Times Square, New York

BP Solar 1800 802 762
Kyocera 0738565388
Sharp

http://www.wbdg.org/design/bipv.php
http://www.greenbuilder.com/sourcebook/Photovoltaic.html

Combined Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal collectors (PVT)

These units collect solar energy. The first layer converts this energy to electricity. The second layer collects residual heat for use within the building.

 

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Cost may often outweigh benefits.

ALL VIC

UNKNOWN

5% - 20%

 

 

http://www.ecn.nl/docs/library/report/2004/rx04069.pdf

Shading

Effective solar shading reduces solar gain to the building thereby providing some passive cooling for warm periods.

All buildings with occupied/conditioned spaces.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

May effect façade access for maintenance, particularly in multilevel buildings.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

Numerous across Australia.

Standard building products.

http://www.wbdg.org/design/suncontrol.php

Night purge

Significant differences between daytime and night time temperatures in areas with temperate climates provide opportunities for the use of 'free' energy. Buildings that are not used overnight can be purged of heat either passively or mechanically, by using cool ambient air. This feature can significantly increase comfort levels and reduce cooling requirements and associated energy use.

All buildings with high internal heat gains and unoccupied overnight.

"BOLT ON" FEATURE

Control systems required.
Security levels can be compromised i.e. opening windows overnight.

ALL VIC

$0 - $1,000

1% - 5%

N/A

Any building controls supplier

 

Passive solar heating

Passive solar heating allows the heating of a building during cool periods via direct penetration of solar energy into the occupied space.

Buildings with heating demand during the day and adequate thermal mass (to ensure solar energy is used overnight).
Can also be used where phase change materials have been incorporated into internal surfaces.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Limited to low heat load buildings.
Risk of overheating if design not correct.

ALL VIC

$1,000 - $5,000

1% - 5%

 

Standard building products.

www.azsolarcenter.com/design/pas-2.html

www.greenbuilder.com/sourcebook/PassSolGuide1-2.html

www.advancedbuildings.org/_frames/fr_t_heat_passive_solar.htm

Flat plate solar collectors

Solar collectors are active systems that collect solar energy, which is transferred to a medium such as water for subsequent use within a building for heating or domestic hot water. A flat plate solar collector consists of an insulated box with a glass or plastic cover. Water is passed through the box via a series of pipes which are mounted adjacent to the absorber plate. Solar energy is collected during this process.

Areas with clear skies and demand for heating during the winter.
Thermal storage often required to maximise effectiveness.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

May not be effective during the winter when heating demand is highest.
Can be problems with freezing in cooler climates.

ALL VIC

$1,000 - $5,000

5% - 20%

Numerous across Australia. Contact manufacturer for case studies.

Beasley
Sola Edwards
Solahart

www.retscreen.net/download.php/ ang/119/0/Textbook_WH.pdf

Evacuated tube solar collectors

An evacuated tube solar collector consists of a number of parallel glass tubes which contain metal absorber tubes which attach to a fin. The void within the glass tube is a vacuum to reduce conductive and convective heat loss. Solar energy is collected within the absorber tubes and distributed to the building. These units are effective even during cloudy periods.

Buildings with significant demand for heating during the winter.
Thermal storage often required to maximise effectiveness.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Energy supply does not align well with heating demand.
Thermal storage may be required which may be cost prohibitive.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Numerous across Australia. Contact manufacturer for case studies.

Apricus Solar

www.retscreen.net/download.php/ ang/119/0/Textbook_WH.pdf

Light shelves

Light shelves are used primarily to enhance daylight levels within a space. The upper surface of a light shelf is reflective to deflect sunlight upwards onto the ceiling of a room. This deflection enables enhanced penetration of sunlight and reduced dependence upon artificial lighting.

Deep plan commercial buildings with good maintenance regimes (regular cleaning required).

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Light shelves easily get dirty and become ineffective.
Maintenance costs increased.

ALL VIC

$1,000 - $5,000

1% - 5%

Australian Geological Survey Office Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Department of Sustainability and Environment, Epsom, Victoria
Monash Science Centre, Clayton, Victoria

Standard building products.

www.advancedbuildings.org/main_t_lighting_light_shelves.htm

Earth ducts / thermal labyrinth

Below ground earth ducts can be used to provide passive pre-heating and pre-cooling of fresh air. This is because the ground is generally at a constant temperature. Air passing through below ground ducts interacts with the surfaces of the ductwork and heat exchange occurs thereby reducing/increasing the temperature of the fresh air dependant upon the external temperature.

Buildings with fresh air requirements, particularly where mechanical cooling is to be avoided.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Cleaning of earth ducts is essential to prevent microbiological growth i.e. increased maintenance costs as access is difficult.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

Federation Square, Melbourne

Standard building products.

www.greenbuilder.com/sourcebook/EarthSheltered.html#Indirect

Hollowcore slab

Hollowcore concrete slabs can be used to distribute air within a building. They can provide energy savings due to the thermal storage potential of concrete. When designed effectively 'free' cooling can be provided for much of the year thereby reducing the dependence upon mechanical cooling. When using this system it is vital that concrete soffits are left exposed to maximise comfort and energy savings via the radiative cooling effect.

Commercial, multistorey buildings.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Cost and complexity.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

1% - 5%

Deakin University Building T
MFB Training Building, Burnley

Hollow Core Concrete, 03 9369 4944
Termodeck

 

Ground Source Heat pumps

Ground Source Heat Pumps utilise the natural thermal storage potential of the ground to provide efficient heating and cooling for buildings. This can be undertaken in a number of ways. The following types of ground linked heat exchanger are most common - vertical closed loop, horizontal closed loop, vertical open loop, lake/sea closed loop, lake/sea open loop.

All buildings with adequate space to install a below ground heat exchanger.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Space for below ground heat exchanger required.
Complexity of system.
Risk of system not meeting comfort requirements.

ALL VIC

$50,000 +

20% - 50%

Sydney Water Police Headquarters, Sydney
Garden East Apartments, Adelaide
Gloucester Police Headquarters, UK

Geoconnections - http://geoconnections.com.au/
McQuay

www.ntnu.no/em/dokumenter/smartbygg_rapp/Storage_State-of-the-art.pdf

Geothermal systems

In some areas of Victoria heat from the Earth's core rises to within 1km of the earths surface. This heat can be utilised via boreholes extracting ground water from these depths. Dependence upon mechanical heating can therefore be reduced.

Areas with good geothermal potential.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Cost.
Availability of resource.

DEFINED AREAS

$50,000 +

 

Geothermal Community Heating system, Southampton, UK

Geoconnections - http://geoconnections.com.au/
McQuay

 

Thermal storage - rock store

Thermal storage systems are used to capture energy and store it until it is required. These systems are particularly useful where energy supply and demand are not aligned effectively.

Buildings where large volumes of air are used for conditioning or solar air heaters are utilised.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Complexity of design.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

5% - 20%

 

Standard building products.

www.ntnu.no/em/dokumenter/smartbygg_rapp/Storage_State-of-the-art.pdf

Thermal storage - water tank

Water can be used as a medium to store solar energy. Tanks should be well insulated and where possible should be either partially or fully buried.

Buildings where solar water heating systems are installed and thermal storage is required.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Risk of losing heat that is being stored i.e. reduced effectiveness.
Underground tanks may perform better thermally but extremely costly to install and repair/replace.

ALL VIC

$1,000 - $5,000

5% - 20%

RES Headquarters, UK
Bramfeld Housing Project, Germany

Standard building products.

www.ntnu.no/em/dokumenter/smartbygg_rapp/Storage_State-of-the-art.pdf

Thermal storage - phase change, building structure

Phase change materials incorporated into the building fabric, particularly walls and floors, can be used to collect heat from a room for use at a later time when heating is required. This application works well with a solar heated home by regulating internal temperatures.

Most buildings, particularly where loads vary significantly throughout the day.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

New technology.
Cost

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

5% - 20%

 

 

www.toolbase.org/techinv/techDetails.aspx?technologyID=268
www.airah.org.au/downloads/2005-03-02.pdf
www.ntnu.no/em/dokumenter/smartbygg_rapp/Storage_State-of-the-art.pdf

Thermal storage - phase change mechanical system

Phase change materials can also be incorporated into the building services systems to allow thermal storage to be undertaken. Solar energy during the day or 'coolth' overnight can be stored for use when required.

Buildings where solar water heating systems are installed and thermal storage is required.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

New technology.
Cost

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

5% - 20%

CH2, Melbourne, VIC

 

www.toolbase.org/techinv/techDetails.aspx?technologyID=268
www.airah.org.au/downloads/2005-03-02.pdf

Thermal storage - thermochemical

Energy can also be stored using reversible chemical reactions. For example, the dissociation of ammonia into nitrogen and hydrogen which requires a large amount of heat energy. This type of storage can only be used by solar thermal power systems which can gather large quantities of energy.

Buildings where high temperature solar water heating systems are installed and thermal storage is required.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

New technology.
Cost

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

5% - 20%

 

 

www.ntnu.no/em/dokumenter/smartbygg_rapp/Storage_State-of-the-art.pdf

Thermal storage - ground source

The earth can act as a thermal store. Solar energy is constantly being collected by the earth. This energy can be extracted. Alternatively, heat or 'coolth' can be pumped into the ground for storage at a later time, potentially on an interseasonal basis.

Where heat rejected from the building can be used at another time i.e. heat rejection in summer could be stored and used for winter heating.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Space for below ground heat exchanger required.
Complexity of system.
Risk of system not meeting comfort requirements.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

The Wilson Lodge Residential Aged Care facility, Sale, Victoria

Geoconnections - http://geoconnections.com.au/

www.ntnu.no/em/dokumenter/smartbygg_rapp/Storage_State-of-the-art.pdf

Anidolic ceilings

Anidiolic ceilings improve the penetration of daylight within a building and can therefore reduce dependence upon artificial lighting.

Where buildings are deep plan.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

New technology.
Not readily available.
No guarantee of performance.
Maintenance requirements
Cost.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

1% - 5%

 

 

http://gaia.lbl.gov/iea21/documents/sourcebook/lowres/daylighting-c4-LR.pdf

Prismatic panels

Prismatic Panels are shading systems using diffuse skylight. Prismatic panels can be attached to vertical windows and skylights. Prismatic panels prevent direct solar radiation from entering the building whilst accepting diffuse skylight. Prismatic panels are most effective in providing glare protection.

Should be installed where openings in the façade can be provided without the requirement for full transparency.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Availability of materials.
Proving cost effectiveness & payback periods.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

 

Bomin Solar, http://www.bomin-solar.de/english2.htm

gaia.lbl.gov/iea21/documents/sourcebook/lowres/daylighting-c4-LR.pdf
www.bomin-solar.de/English/prismalite_e.htm

Laser cut panels

Laser cut panels are used as an alternative to glass and can improve daylight quality in a space by reducing discomfort glare and redirecting sunlight to the ceiling for more effective distribution into the occupied space. This feature reduces the need for artificial lighting.

Should be installed where openings in the façade can be provided without the requirement for full transparency.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Availability of materials.
Proving cost effectiveness & payback periods.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

 

 

http://gaia.lbl.gov/iea21/documents/sourcebook/lowres/daylighting-c4-LR.pdf

ETFE Foil Cushions

ETFE Foil Cushions provide an alternative to standard glazing systems. Primarily ETFE cushions can allow greater areas of transparency in buildings whilst maintaining thermal performance. This feature can enhance daylight levels and reduce dependence upon artificial lighting systems without reducing the thermal performance of a building.

Should be installed where a significant amount of horizontal glazing is proposed i.e. atria.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Cost.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

5% - 20%

Southern Cross Station, Melbourne
Eden Project, Cornwall, UK
Swinburne University, Melbourne

Vector Foiletc, http://www.vector-foiltec.com/vector.htm

See manufacturers website

Polycarbonate sheeting

Polycarbonate sheeting products provide an alternative to standard glazing systems. Primarily ETFE cushions can allow greater areas of transparency in buildings whilst maintaining thermal performance. This feature can enhance daylight levels and reduce dependence upon artificial lighting systems without reducing the thermal performance of a building.

Should be considered where a significant amount of glazing is required for daylighting purposed but full transparency is not required.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Some materials have limited durability and longevity.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Numerous across Australia. Contact manufacturer for case studies.

Australian Polycarbonate Products, http://www.austpolyproducts.com.au/index.htm

See suppliers website

OM Solar System

The OM Solar system is a proprietary systems for passively providing heating, cooling and hot water for a building. The system uses solar collectors, photovoltaics, fans, underfloor air distribution and thermal storage.

For new residential/low occupancy buildings. Principles can be used for most buildings.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Suitable for new buildings where simple integration is possible.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

20% - 50%

Numerous across Japan. Contact manufacturer for case studies.

OM Solar, http://www.omsolar.net/

http://www.omsolar.net/

PV Glazing Panels

Photovoltaic units collect solar energy and convert it into electricity for use either within the building or for distribution to public infrastructure. In this case the Photovoltaic cells are mounted between 2 panes of glass within a laminated glazing system.

Where glazing areas are being provided that do not have a requirement for full transparency i.e. roof of a sun space/atrium.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Cost.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

 

Spire Solar, http://www.spirecorp.com/

 

Switchable' glass

Switchable glass is a relatively new type of glazing that can change its solar performance dependent upon the amount of daylight and solar energy that is required. By applying an electrical current the transparency of the glazing can be changed.

Where glazing areas are being provided that do not have a requirement for full transparency for 100% of the occupied period.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Proving cost effectiveness & payback periods.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

 

Pilkington, http://www.pilkington.com.au

See manufacturers website

Green Roof/Green Façade

Provision of a Green roof or a green façade can have positive effects on the energy performance of a building by improving thermal performance. In some cases deciduous planting can be used to allow solar gains during the winter and prevent solar gains during warm periods.

All buildings in areas that are not subject to regular droughts.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Cost & structural requirements.
Australian climate reduces feasibility due to drought.

ALL VIC

$20,000 - $50,000

1% - 5%

http://www.greenroofs.com/projects/plist.php

Standard building products.

www.greenroofs.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=40

Embedded coils

Water coils are embedded within concrete slabs for the purposes of heating and cooling. When heating is required warm water is passed through the coils, when cooling is required cool water is passed through the slab. Benefits are provided due to a reduction in heating and cooling demand due tot he thermal mass of the slab and the impact of radiative heat transfer. Savings are also made in slab to slab heights and plant requirements.

New buildings with relatively low heating and cooling loads, or where additional heating and cooling sources are provided.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Cost & integration.

ALL VIC

$50,000 +

5% - 20%

The Wilson Lodge Residential Aged Care facility, Sale, Victoria
Kangan Batman TAFE, Melbourne, VIC

DEVI, Under Floor Heating, http://www.devi.com.au/
Thermonet Underfloor Heating
CBS Heating, http://www.cbsheating.com/
TARMAC, UK http://www.tarmacprecast.co.uk/live/downloads4a.pdf

www.cibse.org/pdfs/Embedded%20Hydronic%20Pipe%20Sys.pdf

Solar pond

Solar ponds collect solar energy which can be used for various applications including heating, refrigeration and solar power generation. The pond is simply a pool of water that collects and stores solar energy. Varying levels of salt solution in the water prevents heat losses via convection within the pond. Solar energy is collected in the lowest section of the pond.

Extensive external or roof areas required.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Scale & cost.

ALL VIC

UNKNOWN

5% - 20%

Pyramid Hill salt Works, Victoria

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_ponds

T3E

T3E is a proprietary system that utilises solar energy and thermal storage (using phase change materials) for space heating and hot water.

All buildings.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Availability of materials.
Proving cost effectiveness & payback periods.

ALL VIC

UNKNOWN

5% - 20%

 

T3Energy

http://www.t3e.com.au/

Daylight dimming

Daylight dimming allows the level of artificial lighting output to be reduced dependent upon the availability of natural light. This reduction in artificial lighting reduces energy consumption.

All buildings subject to significant daylight levels.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

 

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Numerous, contact lighting controls company

Numerous including:
Energy Conservation Systems (ECS) Pty. Ltd
CONSON Australia Pty Ltd

http://gaia.lbl.gov/iea21/documents/sourcebook/lowres/daylighting-c5-LR.pdf

Heliostat

Helioststats track the movement of the sun and reflect daylight in a consistent direction. When used in buildings, this reflected daylight is then channelled into the occupied space to offset artificial lighting requirements.

All buildings with areas that suffer a lack of daylight.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Limited product availability.
Lack of demonstration projects.
Limited cost effectiveness.
Limited application.

ALL VIC

UNKNOWN

1% - 5%

Teadrop Park at Battery Park, New York City

Bomin Solar, http://www.bomin-solar.de/english2.htm

http://www.bomin-solar.de/English/heliostats.htm

Tubular light guide systems

Tubular daylight distribution systems for deep plan or under daylit buildings. Poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA) materials are often used in their construction.

All buildings with areas that suffer a lack of daylight.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Availability of materials.
Proving cost effectiveness & payback periods.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

1% - 5%

 

 

http://gaia.lbl.gov/iea21/documents/sourcebook/lowres/daylighting-c4-LR.pdf

Heat recovery ventilation

Heat recovery ventilation ensures that energy leaving a building through exhaust air is not wasted. Heat during the winter and coolth during the summer can be collected and used to pre-heat or cool incoming fresh air.

Suitable to any building that has a supply and exhaust ventilation system, particularly in cool parts of Victoria.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Space for heat recovery may prevent installation.
Additional resistance in system may negate savings.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Earth Centre Conference Building, UK
BedZED Housing Development, UK

 

http://www.toolbase.org/techinv/techDetails.aspx?technologyID=122

Parabolic trough collectors

Parabolic trough collectors can be used to focus solar energy and generate significant thermal loads for use in heating or electricity generation.

Any building requiring significant heating in an area with very little cloud cover.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Clear sky conditions required.

NORTHERN VIC

UNKNOWN

5% - 20%

Generally used in industrial applications

 

 

Parabolic dish

Parabolic dish collectors can be used to focus solar energy and generate significant thermal loads for use in heating or electricity generation.

Any building requiring significant heating in an area with very little cloud cover.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Clear sky conditions required

NORTHERN VIC

UNKNOWN

5% - 20%

Generally used in industrial applications

 

www.solstice.crest.org/renewables/dish-stirling/

Solar PV powered LED lighting

LED lamps are the newest addition to the list of energy efficient light sources. LED lighting systems consume 10% - 20% of the energy that 'standard' systems consume. Though still in their infancy, LED lamp technologies are rapidly progressing and show promise for the future.

Any building.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Cost of LED lighting systems is still prohibitive.
Colour rendering capability of LED systems is limited.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

 

 

 

Roof spray cooling.

Water is sprayed over a roof overnight to allow radiative heat loss to the night sky thereby providing significant heat rejection. Should be used in conjunction with thermal storage devices.

Any building requiring cooling.

FUNDAMENTAL TO DESIGN

Maintenance requirements.

ALL VIC

$5,000 -  $20,000

5% - 20%

Kangan Batman TAFE

Standard building products.

www.airah.org.au/downloads/2005-09-03.pdf

Rotary ventilators

Rotary ventilators provide passive exhaust air systems by harnessing the wind to spin a roof mounted unit and create negative pressure which pulls air from the building.

Naturally ventilated/mixed mode buildings in areas with suitable wind velocities.

SIGNIFICANT INTEGRATION REQUIRED

Cannot ensure fresh air movement during still periods.
May become corroded in marine environments.

ALL VIC

$1,000 - $5,000

1% - 5%

Numerous across Australia

Edmonds, http://www.edmonds.com.au

 

 

Source: http://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/resources/documents/Solar_Technologies_Report.xls