UQ launches zero-energy building

The University of Queensland (UQ) has officially opened the Global Change Institute (GCI), a $32 million building which will operate as a zero-energy and zero-carbon workplace.

Designed by Hassell, the building represents the first Australian use of structural geopolymer concrete, a low-carbon product produced with significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions than conventional concrete.

The building will generate and store its own power on site through renewable solar energy sources. All excess power will be delivered back to the grid.

“The building moves away from a framework of consumption of the world's resources to one that contributes to the restoration and regeneration of the environment,” said Hassel Principal Mark Roehrs.

“It is able to act as a live research site, with the building systems and occupants used to assess optimal comfort conditions in low-energy buildings for the subtropics.”

The building features an operable sun shading system that tracks the sun and protects the glass louvres which create natural ventilation. The air flows across occupied spaces to the central atrium which acts as the building’s lungs, discharging warm air through its thermal chimney.

The translucent ETFE atrium roof optimises natural light to the interior and is also heat resistant. The building is cooled with chilled water flushed through exposed sculptural precast floor panels.

Rainwater storage of 60,000 litres services the hydronic cooling system, kitchen and shower. Optimal natural lighting is supported by environmentally friendly LED lighting.

“The building had to be functional, as well as help our researchers better understand how to maximise a space in a subtropical environment,” said Global Change Institute Director Professor Ove Hoegh-Guldberg.

“The end product is both aesthetically beautiful and challenging. The GCI team must learn to work in new ways and change their workplace behaviour.”