CUSP-C Solar Power Canopy Design Contest

In an effort to promote the use and understanding of renewable energy, the CU Environmental Center has allocated $100,000 for the construction of a solar power canopy or awning to be place in one of four possible locations on the CU Boulder campus. $45,000 in funding is also expected from Amendment 37 rebates for a total budget of $145,000. When completed, the solar power canopy will be the first solar power system on the CU campus visible to the general public.

One of the primary goals of the project is to inspire student designers, architects and engineers to learn about solar power systems and conceive designs for a real-world project ­ hence the contest. Any CU student or team of students can submit entries that will be reviewed by a panel of judges.

The contest was completed in May 2006.  The following is a synopsis of the winners:

Solar Beach Pavilion
Special Prize: Best Use of Building Integrated Photovoltaics

The Solar Beach Pavilion, designed by Nate Sanders and team, was inspired by the rectilinear and repetitive design aspects of the Recreation Centers south facade. Nate wanted to incorporate PV glass rather than using traditional solar panels. In PV glazing, solar cells similar to those found in standard solar panels, are embedded in glass. The space between each cell allows light to pass through and cast shadows. Nate wanted the shadows cast by the PV glazing to define the space.

PVT Photovoltaic Tree
Third Place
Special Prize: Most Innovative Design

Issac Oaks’ and Jeff Berlin’s solar canopy design is intended to mimic a tree in that it provides shade and harnesses energy from the sun similar to  a real tree. The design is expandable, scalable, and flexible enough to suit any site or environment. An adjustable joint allows for the PV Tree to be adjusted for optimal orientation to the sun regardless of where it is “planted”.

Stretching the Experience of Sustainability
Second Place

Nick designed a structure which was visually light weight. The cantilever design achieves that goal and draws attention to itself without detracting from or competing with the existing architecture. To further integrate the design into the campus architecture, solar panels are arranged in a way that is reminiscent of the sandstone masonry found on all of the existing University buildings.

Contest Winning Design:
SunWing
First Place

The wing of a bird is the inspiration for this solar canopy, designed by Eric Hays. While a bird’s wings make use of air to move from one place to another, the Sun Wing harnesses energy from the sun to move our university and society from an age of fossil fuel dependence to a new era of clean and renewable energy. The beautiful shape of the Sun Wing seamlessly incorporates photovoltaics which can power and empower us with less reliance on petroleum and sets a visual precedent for future renewable energy installations everywhere.