ENERGY
had to be many things to many people; it The centre has a small, functional and help
had to be warm and comfortable for kitchen area where all electrical show the
those working there and stimulating for appliances are designed to be world the
those visiting. There had to be enough energy-saving. The electricity itself is good
space to house an entire conference but supplied by a batery of PV solar cells, work that
with more intimate areas for meetings and supplemented by Samsø grid electricity, is
workshops. It also had to appear as an which for the most part is delivered by the happening there.
organic addition to the landscape and island’s wind turbines. “To us it shows what can be done
indigenous architecture.” The academy has been running as a when energy-efficiency is a priority - but
The answer was to model the building working operation for around a year now also that this doesn’t have to detract from
on a typical Danish farmhouse with a and opened its doors to visitors in the the beauty and dignity of the structure
long, saddle-style roof. In fact, the centre summer of 2007. It is now a real hive of itself. It’s not just an experimental
has been created as two buildings put activity, playing host to research projects building, but a living and breathing space
together, giving the flexibility needed. The on all the different type of renewable which, we believe, will provide an
space can be opened up as one huge energy systems on the island; to inspiration to all those visiting, working
room, as required. conferences where business people, and learning there.”
The building is heated by the local scientists and politicians can discuss the For more information please visit
straw-based heating plant – and what issues at stake and to schools on field trips www.arkitema.com
Carston describes as “heavy furniture” or who can view the exhibition and learn
room dividers made of special bricks about what can be done.
attract and hold this heat plus the warmth Arkitema is now moving
from the sun during the day. Naturally, on to the next stage; the
What sort of Carbon Footprint will
the windows are positioned to maximise residential wing for research
the light and to ventilate the building in an students working on long-
you be helping to create this summer?
efficient way. term study at the centre.
The building is also designed to use “We’re very proud of the
the minimal amount of water, for Samsø Energy Academy,”
example, rainwater is used to flush the says Carstons. “It will
toilets. A small, thermal solar system provide a further boost to
provides hot water. the economy of the island
In summer high levels of energy are used to power fans and
air-conditioning and for supplementary lighting when blinds are pulled…
…when an application of solar control window film will prevent 75% of
the heat and glare from entering the building.
To find out more visit our website, call or email.
www.theproblemwithwindows.co.uk
01189 895200
Where glass is greenermail@durable.co.uk
SUSTAINABLE FM | APRIL 2008
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