This project utilizes the solar energy not only to reach the net zero target, but also to provide a delightful spatial experience for the visitors in San Francisco Bay Area. The visitor center has been defined within two main rectangular forms/zones. One zone embraces the wet lab class and the exhibition space, and another zone includes administrative and public gatherings. The latter zone includes an atrium looking south towards water and uses solar radiation in cold seasons. The locations and orientations of rectangular forms aim at maximizing the use of sunlight for energy harvesting and daylighting, minimizing the need for the change/excavation of the natural topography and vegetation, and maximizing opportunities of scenic views. The project features a sunspace connecting the two educational and public gathering zones and its large openings are shaded/un-shaded with a motorized louver system. The louvers can be adjusted to be closed, opened, or moved for an uninterrupted scenic view through the glass wall or for preventing heat loss at night. The louver system utilizes solar radiation (11Watt/ft2) and outside temperature (65 F) as the set-point for response to changes in ambient condition.
A solar chimney next to the recreation center and natural ventilation dampers on the façade represent other passive strategies. The Ground Source Heat Pump for radiant heating floors and Active Chilled Beams with a Dedicated Outdoor Air System for ventilation, and if needed cooling, define the projects main active technology components. These active-passive strategies reduce the project’s energy consumption to 18.88 kBtu/ft2yr (16.88 kbtu/ft2.yr for the building+ the additional 2kbtu/ft2.yr for the exhibit specific equipment).
Solar energy through photovoltaic panels on the roof will offset this remaining energy. With 20% efficiency at 10-degree tilt angle, the roof-mounted panels are self-cleaning with rain and resistant to wind loads, which are important factors besides energy production for determining the tilt angle. The design mediates between energy codes and architectural aesthetics particularly when it comes to the features of the building envelope. That being said, large uncontrolled glazing were not utilized at this building scale to avoid issues such as drought or night radiation in cold seasons. (Project Team Members: Khanh Nguyen Cu, M. Azimi)