GRAMMAR SCHOOL · MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Onyx Solar has proudly completed the installation of photovoltaic skylights at the prestigious Melbourne Grammar School’s new Geoff Handbury Science and Technology Hub. This state-of-the-art facility integrates Onyx Solar’s amorphous silicon photovoltaic glass, combining modern aesthetics with cutting-edge sustainability. The skylight system features 37 units of amorphous silicon glass, each measuring 1,245x635 mm, with a 20% transparency level. The installatio delivers a nominal power capacity of 1.0 kWp. Beyond generating clean energy, the skylights are expected to reduce HVAC demand by 52%, offering a payback period of less than two years. Over its 30 - year lifespan, the system can recover up to 55 times the initial investment.
Designed by the renowned architecture studio Denton Corker Marshall, the Geoff Handbury Science and Technology Hub seamlessly blends high-performance design with Melbourne Grammar School’s rich architectural heritage. The building supports a dynamic educational environment, fostering scientific inquiry, technological exploration, and creativity.
The photovoltaic skylights not only align with Melbourne’s growing focus on renewable energy but also enhance the comfort of the building’s occupants by offering improved natural light distribution and reducing glare. The amorphous silicon glass used in the project is specifically tailored for the local climate, with its semi-transparency allowing ample daylight to filter through while effectively blocking harmful UV radiation and minimizing heat gain. This leads to a more comfortable indoor environment, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning, ultimately lowering the building's overall energy consumption.
Melbourne Grammar School, a leading independent school with over 160 years of tradition, is known for its dedication to academic excellence. This new hub reinforces its commitment to sustainability and innovative learning spaces.
Denton Corker Marshall is an international architecture and urban design practice based in Australia. They are known for their iconic and innovative projects across various sectors, including civic, residential, and commercial buildings. Their work focuses on minimalism, modernism, and functional aesthetics.
