giant solar canopy makes a splash at Summer Olympics

SDA engineers two PV systems for Georgia Tech Aquatic Center

Solar at the Summer Olympics Photo © Georgia Institute of Technology 2006.

Location: Atlanta, GA USA Client: International Olympic Committee Use: Olympic Aquatics venue Architect: Roger Preston & Partners

Background:
For the 1996 Summer Olympics, the Georgia Institute of Technology partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy and Georgia Power to create an open-air Natatorium seating 15,000. The swimming venue featured the largest-to-date rooftop PV array in the world, at 32,750 square feet.

PV modules are integrated in a custom arched aluminum support structure.Special Features:

• SDA provided design and engineering support to the Olympic Village architects and construction managers for a rooftop PV system for the natatorium, and designed a special arched glass PV canopy for the entrance to the complex
• The entry canopy featured special large-area Solarex PV modules with a clear back skin to allow light transmission between the individual cells.
• The PV modules were integrated in a custom-designed arched aluminum support structure to form the skin of the canopy.
• Each PV module featured its own integrated DC-to-AC micro inverter developed by SDA to deliver 60 Hz AC power directly to the building complex.

Outcome:

• The university community, led by Prof. Ajeet Rohatgi, Director of the University's Center of Excellence for Photovoltaic Research and Education, was integrally involved in the planning, execution and monitoring of the PV systems. Students and researchers gained hands-on experience in large-scale construction principles as well as renewable energy applications.

Four-time Olympic Gold Medalist Amy Van DykenGood vibe:

American swimmer Amy Van Dyken won her four gold medals in the solar-heated pool.

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