I&M BANK · NAIROBI, KENYA
NEW CONSTRUCTION
The largest photovoltaic skylight in Africa became a reality at the new I&M Bank headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya. It is made up of 2.200 m2 of amorphous silicon laminated photovoltaic glass panels with varying degrees of transparency and various dimensions tailored to meet the project’s design requirements. This photovoltaic roof skylight serves as a natural light source that filters harmful radiation and heat to ensure the comfort of the bank's employees and visitors. On top of that, photovoltaic glass constitutes a stable source of renewable energy sufficient to illuminate more than 6.500 light points inside the building. All this contributes significantly to reducing the environmental impact associated with energy consumption.
The photovoltaic glass used for this project was custom-designed to meet the specific needs of the I&M Bank building, optimizing both its aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. With a visible light transmission of 32% and a g-value of 16%, the PV glass allows a generous amount of natural light to flood the interior spaces, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere while controlling heat gain. This balance between light transmission and solar heat control, is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment in Nairobi's warm climate. Additionally, the photovoltaic glass reaches a nominal power output of 34 Wp per square meter, significantly reducing the building’s reliance on external energy sources. The installation not only enhances the architectural beauty of the bank’s headquarters but also supports its sustainability goals by integrating renewable energy generation directly into the design. This project highlights the versatility and functionality of photovoltaic glass as an ideal solution for modern, eco-conscious architecture.
"This beautiful new building is a state of the art green design building, with integrated photovoltaic glass installation, one of a kind in East & Central Africa. The building is a Grade A office development with environmentally conscious design."
I&M is a prominent engineering and construction company specializing in delivering high-quality solutions across multiple sectors, including energy, infrastructure, and industrial development. Known for its focus on precision, innovation, and sustainability, I&M has become a key player in advancing projects that meet modern environmental standards. By integrating Onyx Solar’s photovoltaic solutions into its developments, I&M demonstrates its commitment to reducing environmental impact while optimizing energy efficiency in its projects.
