Skylights Made Of ASCA Organic Solar Cells At The Netherlands Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai
The Netherlands Pavilion for the World Expo 2020 in Dubai has opened its doors on the 1st of October. From now on and onwards for six months, guests from all around the world can visit the unique installation in the Sustainability District. Solar designer Marjan van Aubel Studio created the pavilion's colourful solar-paneled roof whose skylights are made of transparent organic photovoltaic cells (OPV) from ASCA.
Combing art and energy
The pavilion, designed by V8 Architects, is a temporary circular climate system that forms a symbiotic relationship between water, energy, and food solutions. When entering, the skylights immerse visitors in rays of coloured light that reflect, refract, and dance inside the pavilion. Marjan van Aubel Studio created the transparent skylights specially for the installation. “With ASCA® solutions, any design is possible. The graphic design of the solar cells with a coloured Moiré effect shows that they do not only produce energy, but also can be a form of art,” says solar designer Marjan van Aubel. The unique ASCA® solar panels supply the pavilion with solar power produced by carbon-based organic solar cells; they, in turn, create a climate for growing food products.
Award-winning concept
In mid-September the Netherlands Pavilion – together with Expomobilia, V8 Architects, Dutch Dubai and many more – was honored with the "Sustainable Construction Project of the Year" award for its unique sustainability concept and building approach.
Lightweight OPV solutions
ASCA manufactured the OPV by applying the very thin layers to fine PET foils using a special printing process. As the ASCA® solutions are lightweight and easily transportable, the panels can be taken apart and be reassembled. They will go to a new destination after the Expo ends.