STEM LEARNING CENTER · CUYAHOGA, OHIO, UNITED STATES
NEW CONSTRUCTION
The crystalline silicon photovoltaic glass provided by Onyx Solar for the central atrium of Cuyahoga Community College’s Western Campus STEM Center is key for its design, especially considering the quiet environment needed for a university in Ohio's varied climate. This laminated, insulating glass offers excellent thermal insulation and noise reduction, essential for maintaining a conducive learning atmosphere. Its energy - generating capability, approximately 33,000 kWh/year, significantly meets the building’s energy needs, contributing to the STEM Center's LEED Gold Certification.
The photovoltaic glass used for the STEM Learning Center was selected to meet the project’s energy efficiency and environmental goals. With a visible light transmission (VLT) of 34%, the glass allows generous natural light to fill the atrium, creating a bright and welcoming space while reducing the need for artificial lighting. The solar factor of 40% ensures effective control over solar heat gain, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature for students and staff, even during Ohio’s warm summer months. This balance between natural light and solar control not only enhances the building’s energy performance but also improves the overall comfort of its occupants.
Additionally, the photovoltaic glass provides a sleek, modern aesthetic that aligns with the STEM Center’s focus on innovation and technology. By integrating energy-generating glass into the architecture, the building exemplifies how educational facilities can incorporate sustainable solutions while supporting a cutting-edge learning environment. The combination of energy savings, thermal performance, and visual appeal makes this photovoltaic glass the perfect choice for a high-tech institution like Cuyahoga’s STEM Learning Center, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking design.
Weber Murphy Fox (WMF) is an architecture and design firm known for delivering innovative solutions across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and civic spaces. With a commitment to sustainability, WMF integrates energy-efficient technologies into its projects to minimize environmental impact.
The U.S. Department of Education is dedicated to promoting educational excellence and ensuring equal access to educational opportunities for all Americans. As part of its broader commitment to sustainability and innovation, the Department incorporates renewable energy practices into its facilities. By utilizing Onyx Solar’s photovoltaic glass, the Department of Education aims to reduce energy consumption, leading by example in environmental stewardship while fostering a more sustainable future for educational institutions across the nation.
