True North Wind Tower

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Environmental Components

 

Solar Cells

Photovoltaic art glass merges the ancient art of stained glass with the latest solar technology to produce a window that not only looks magnificent, but also gathers and stores electricity for later use.

Embedded in the tower’s window is an array of solar cells (thin silicon and metal squares that convert light into electricity), and these collect enough energy to illuminate the wind tower’s beautifully coloured LED lighting system, also designed by artist Sarah Hall.

Solar cells are a nearly perfect energy source, as they generate electricity without emitting harmful greenhouse gases. And because they are so durable they can transform nearly any surface into a clean, long-lasting energy source. Moreover, they come in a wide range of colors, allowing an unlimited range of designs.

Radiant Heating and Cooling

The mechanical system of the Regent College Library is based on the concept of a radiant heating and cooling system installed within the concrete structure which forms the ceiling of the library. Tempered fresh air is introduced at low velocities to the library through a series of floor diffusers with natural ventilation exhausting the air through a 40 foot high “wind tower” located on the roof of the library.

Natural ventilation through the windtower is achieved by making use of the natural pressure differences surrounding the building, caused by the wind and stack effect. Air movement within the building will depend on buoyance (thermal forces), stack and wind pressures.

The aerodynamically designed wind tower provides natural ventilation, reduces fan power requirements and increases the energy efficiency of the mechanical systems.