Energy company Energy Partners has completed a project at property investment company Fairvest’s Metalbox skyscraper in Auckland Park, Johannesburg. The property now features a building-integrated PV (BIPV) system that generates up to 300 MWh/y.

It is South Africa’s first solar facade skyscraper, Energy Partners says.

The project incorporates two solar systems. Monocrystalline solar PV panels on the building’s sides provide energy and aesthetic appeal, performing well even in low-light conditions. The roof features carport- type panels, thereby optimising sunlight exposure, while offering weatherproofing to services located on the roof.

“The BIPV technology transforms conventional building parts into solar systems, and enhances functionality, aesthetics and improved return on investment,” says Energy Partners Power GM Charl du Plessis.

Metalbox, which stands 80 m tall and has 15 000 m² of gross leasable area, is one of the largest commercial office properties in Fairvest’s portfolio.

“Metalbox is an energy-hungry property. This solar installation marks our innovative, solutions-driven approach towards renewable energy,” says Fairvest COO Riaz Kader.

“This investment is in line with our environmental, social, governance and strategic objectives. We are investing in sustainable energy and water infrastructure to derisk our portfolio by providing a degree of energy and water independence while lowering the cost of electricity for our company and tenants.”

“With the ever-increasing cost of grid electricity, a tipping point has been reached where even capital expenditure-intensive projects with lower generation potential are feasible,” says Du Plessis.

“We also had to achieve adequate torque on the clamps for environmental resilience, which is no mean feat, considering that the solar panels cover a total area of 1 259 m². This also makes it South Africa’s largest custom-built commercial installation,” he says.

Shading was modelled to accurately predict generation forecasts, and the engineering design includes various aspects to ensure maintainability over the long term, he adds.

Further, the project required close collaboration with regulatory authorities to receive building plan approval and embedded generation approval. It also had to undergo a glint and glare study to mitigate solar glare effects on neighbouring surroundings.

“We have seen similar projects succeed worldwide and, as a first in South Africa, the Metalbox skyscraper project is history in the making,” says Energy Partners CEO Manie de Waal.