SCOTCH COLLEGE · VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA
Founded in 1851, Scotch College is the oldest secondary school in Victoria, Australia. Located in the heart of Melbourne, the campus has added “The Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science,” a building designed to showcase environmental sustainability, and Onyx Solar was a natural fit for this forward-thinking project. Onyx Solar developed a photovoltaic pergola for the rooftop of the center, using amorphous silicon glass with medium semi-transparency. This glass allows daylight to enter the building while providing significant thermal protection, contributing to both energy efficiency and a comfortable environment for students and staff.
With a total installed power of 3.7 kWp, the system generates 2,051 kWh of clean energy annually, enough to power nearly 120 lights. This sustainable solution not only cuts energy costs but also prevents the release of 1.4 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere each year, aligning with the school's commitment to environmental stewardship.
The photovoltaic glass, chosen for its ability to balance natural light with energy generation, also enhances the overall design, blending seamlessly with the building's architectural aesthetic. Given the hot summers in Victoria, the thermal insulation properties of the photovoltaic glass help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for additional cooling systems. This integration aligns perfectly with the school’s sustainability goals, demonstrating how renewable energy can be embedded in an educational environment without compromising on design or functionality.
