In a groundbreaking move toward sustainability, a 1960s Downsview apartment building has turned a routine balcony upgrade into an opportunity to embrace renewable energy. Instead of conventional glass railings, the building’s owners installed solar panels that double as balcony railings. This initiative not only enhances the building's facade but also reflects a forward-thinking approach to energy efficiency.
The project involves specially designed solar panels manufactured locally in Etobicoke, marking a new era of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). Unlike traditional solar panels that are typically confined to rooftops, BIPV panels can be seamlessly integrated into various parts of a building, including walls, cladding, and as in this case, balcony railings. The panels on this apartment building capture sunlight from multiple angles without needing to directly face the sun, making them a versatile solution in urban settings where rooftop space is limited.
This project exemplifies how mandatory upgrades—like replacing balcony railings every 20 years for safety reasons—can be leveraged to implement sustainable solutions. While the initial cost of installing solar panels was slightly higher than traditional materials, the long-term benefits in terms of energy savings and environmental impact make it a worthwhile investment. The solar panels come with a 25-year performance warranty, ensuring the investment pays for itself multiple times over.
With over 1,200 linear meters of BIPV installed on this building alone, the solar balcony railings are expected to produce approximately 100 megawatt-hours of power per year.
This initiative demonstrates how urban developments can be both practical and visionary. It exemplifies how innovative thinking and sustainable technology can transform aging structures into environmentally friendly assets that benefit both the planet and the bottom line.
Read more about it here.