SOLAR DISCOVERY CENTRE

Abstract

While there is much anticipation and effort in developing the clean energy sector of Singapore, the public greatly lacks awareness and knowledge of clean technologies. Solar energy is one type of renewable energy that has the most potential to succeed in Singapore’s climate which is blessed with 12 hours of sunlight every day. Singapore has already focused on bringing in experts to go into the research area as well as the manufacturing area of solar technology, aiming to create 7000 jobs by 2015. Yet, not many have the knowledge of or the easy access to these technologies. At the same time, architects shy away from the use of photovoltaic (PV) as part of their architectural expression due to the preconceived ideas that PV are rigid, boring and ugly. The project is located in Changi Business Park. With the idea of a solar discovery centre, this thesis aims to serve as a public outreach device that complements the supply of solar technologies that we already have. Located opposite Expo MRT Station, the building aims to act as a gateway into the business park. Architecturally, it also hopes to inspire people in the building industry in the potential of solar technologies.