Many historic buildings across Europe are embracing the need for green energy by installing solar panels using innovative techniques. One notable example is the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, which recently fitted 300 solar panels on its roof in a bid to become climate neutral by 2030. The installation, designed to save electricity and light its exhibition halls, had to carefully consider the unique challenges posed by the modernist structure of the iconic building by architect Frank Gehry.
While some historic buildings have discreetly incorporated solar panels, such as Chippenham Hall in England and the archaeological park of Pompeii in Italy, others have faced controversy. For example, when PV panels were proposed for the grade I listed King’s College Chapel in Cambridge, despite pushback from Historic England, the planning committee approved the installation as a symbol of change.
As the demand for clean energy increases, city councils in Europe have started relaxing rules to allow more solar panels on historic buildings. For example, Amsterdam plans to permit solar panels on protected buildings and monuments by 2025. Meanwhile, technological advancements in building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are enabling solar panels to blend seamlessly into historic structures by replacing elements like roofs, skylights, and façades.
Overall, the integration of solar panels on historic buildings is seen as a positive step towards sustainability and reducing energy costs, while still preserving the aesthetic integrity of these architectural landmarks.
Source
Photo credit www.euronews.com