Solar Activation of Footbridges for Beijing

SOLAR ACTIVATION OF FOOTBRIDGES Like many other metropolises, Beijing has a great number of footbridges traversing busy arteries. They are often unattractive, downgrading the overall urban impression. Our idea of cladding the unsightly pedestrian bridges with aesthetic, power generating photovoltaic modules and converting them into appealing city spots is not only sustainable but creates sculptural diversity that becomes a cityscape eye-catcher. The footbridges can serve as landmarks in the city: “Let´s meet under the Pagoda Footbridge”. We propose more than just various design objects – we offer a system of sustainable urban structures with distinguishable visual appearance. The applied AVANCIS thin-film modules produce electricity under the most unfavorable weather and site conditions. They are very light and resilient. Two mockups that were on show in Shanghai and Munich demonstrate the feasibility of the system, which allows constructing effective und reliable structures for different climatic zones. E-car and e-bike charging stations under the footbridges directly utilize the locally generated solar power. Eye-catching PV structures make the e-charging and e-sharing points easy locatable for the users. The system has been developed for existing structures but it is just as well to apply for new structures. Electricity harvested from the sun can be used on the spot for the illumination, the elevators, escalators or air-condition (100% eco-energy). The integrated solar panels gradually pay themselves off. Implemented display measures will inform passing-by persons and as a result lead to a better understanding and acceptance of solar solutions which are beneficial to society and the environment .