EPFL unveils SolAce, a solar-powered pilot unit in Dübendorf

EPFL's SolAce pilot unit was inaugurated today at the NEST R&D center on the Empa campus in Dübendorf, Switzerland. Researchers at this solar-powered unit will test out new technology designed to make buildings energy positive and carbon neutral - while providing maximum comfort for their occupants. SolAce - which opened its doors today at the NEST building in Dübendorf - is a pilot unit where researchers will test new technology for sustainable living and optimal user comfort. The building will generate more power than it uses (for heating and electricity) and will be carbon neutral or even carbon negative. Intended to be a combined working-living space, it has a bedroom with two separate beds, a kitchen and a living room. "By reducing the amount of commuter traffic from people going to and from work, we can make a substantial cut in carbon emissions. Two researchers will live and work at SolAce for two years to try out our idea of a dual-purpose building," says Jean-Louis Scartezzini, head of EPFL's Solar Energy and Building Physics Laboratory (LESO-PB) and the SolAce project leader.