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ETFE Façade Concept

Energy-efficient membrane façade

The world´s first energy-efficient façade project in membrane architecture

Within the framework of a collaboration with ETFE specialist Taiyo Europe, the World´s first energy-efficient façade project in membrane architecture has been developed using customized ASCA® photovoltaic modules on ETFE at a Merck building in Darmstadt.

The intention was to create an extravagant façade equipped with an OPV system that is appealing not only in terms of functionality but also design. It was intended to demonstrate that printed organic photovoltaics make a fundamental contribution to the energy efficiency of buildings. The system feeds power back into the building’s grid.

An aesthetically as well as a technically high-quality solution for an energy-efficient membrane façade was made available for the first time. This represents a milestone in the field of membrane construction.

Project facts

  • Client: Merck KGAA
  • Solution: 1,650 modules assembled on 45 ETFE frames
  • Integration: fully integrated OPV modules, including bonding to ETFE, connection technology and all system components
  • Photovoltaic surface area: ≈ 500 m²

“The cooperation between ETFE and OPV was a real meeting of minds. It is an ideal material combination for an original and trendsetting architecture for façades and roofs.”

Peter Kastner, Sales Manager at Taiyo Europe GmbH