Solar River by Johanna Schlosser
The project envisions a large-scale installation of organic photovoltaic films, spanning across the ‚Wienfluss‘ canal. Following the course of the water for hundreds of meters through the city of Vienna, the installation itself takes on a wavelike shape, creating the impression of a larger river flowing above. Arranged in simple stripes the translucent photovoltaic panels form colorful waves generating electric energy from sunlight.
Who The ‘Solar River‘ and its appealing play of orange colored shadows can be observed by anyone from the buildings and sidewalks along the river. Since it is located in public space, it is installed by the City of Vienna and provides energy for the city’s residents.
Why The project aims to integrate a large photovoltaic system in an innovative and visually appealing way. By opening up a surface above the ‘Wienfluss‘, a large area in the city is made available for sustainable energy production. To construct a stable suspension of this size, the advantages of lightweight and flexible photovoltaic film are used.
How A net structure made of wire ropes holds long panels of photovoltaic film. It is attached to the inner walls of the concrete riverbed at different heights, which gives it the appearance of gentle waves. The size and mounting heights of the structure can be adjusted to the requirements caused by the course of the river.
Where Situated directly above the ‘Wien fluss‘, the project makes use of a space in the middle of the city that was previously barely usable. It can either extend over shorter distances or take up the entire length of the river. However, the ‘Solar River‘ installation could also work as a model for permeable roofing elsewhere in the city.
CONTACT johanna-schlosser@gmx.de
