Copenhagen International School (CIS) - a low-energy building and the largest building-integrated photovoltaic in Europe

The school building’s unique facade is covered in 12,000 solar panels, each individually angled to create a sequin-like effect,
Type of organisation or company
Country
Denmark
City
Copenhagen
Language for original content
Norwegian
Key Area
Project elaborated in partnership
No
Start/End date
to
Ongoing
No
Expected end date
03/2017
Julian Weyer
Description

CIS Nordhavn is a new school building for the Copenhagen International School, located in a prominent position in Copenhagen's North Port. The main school building is subdivided into four smaller towers, each specially adapted to meet the needs of children at different stages of development. 12 000 solar panels cover the school's facades from the first floor upwards. Each 70 x 70 cm solar photovoltaic module is angled in different directions to create a varied surface.

In terms of the school facilties, the classrooms for the youngest pupils are particularly large. A full range of functions will take place in and around the classroom, each of which has designated green spaces and areas with drama/performance facilities, physical education, etc.

The four towers each have from five to seven storeys. All four school units are built on top of the ground-floor base, which includes a foyer, sports facilities, a canteen, library and performance facilities. These common areas will be open for school and local community events.

Main activity field
Main results

The school's 12 000 solar panels are designed to supply almost half of the school's annual electricity consumption. It is the largest building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) installation in Europe, adding up to approximately 6 000 m2 of solar cells in total, with a corresponding 720 kWp capacity.

CIS is a good example of the "Prosumer" building of the future. With approximately 39% of the total electricity consumption covered by the solar cells, CIS is a good example of a low-energy building, which also has a good score with regard to the Danish AktivHus labeling system.