11/03/14: German BIQ Building Powered by Algae

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The major issue of contention on most peoples minds these days is the ever present need for sustainable energy solutions. An alternative method to fulfilling this need is the concept of an 'algae-powered' building. The engineering firm Arup has attempted to bring this concept to fruition by developing a 'bio-adaptive facade' for its BIQ building in Hamburg, Germany - which houses 15 apartments. Green paneling can be seen darted around the exoskeleton of the building, providing paneled cells in which micro algae can grow when exposed to the direct sun light.

The 'bio-adaptive facade' provides a variety of of practical functions to the building. All of the algae panels are sun facing, allowing them to directly receive sunlight in which to photosynthesize. During the photosynthesis process, heat is directly absorbed from the sun and used to warm the buildings water boiling tank. At the same time, the warmer the day becomes - the more the algae will grow; providing local residents with shade and comfort in which to go about their day.

The building acts as its own bio-reactor, passively insulating the building and providing a comfortable temperature for all of its occupants. Direct energy is produced by gathering up the dead algae and using it as a bio-fuel in which to generate energy from the pulp like substance, alternatively the algae may also be used to create a nutritious meal supplement.

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