“A benchmark for the region for energy efficiency and renewable energy sources” – Holcim Awards Jury
The jury commended this project because it demonstrates in a convincing manner that high-rise buildings also have significant potential to be designed and constructed in compliance with the globally-accepted standards for sustainable construction. This high-tech structure is a 400m-tall, 53-storey twin tower mainly for “class A” office use.
Last updated: June 19, 2008 Johannesburg, South Africa
Optimization of passive cooling and daylight through a context-responsive façade is expected to achieve energy savings of over 50% compared to Dubai standard practices. In addition, the three horizontal-axis wind turbines at a diameter of 29m each and 6,000 photovoltaic panels integrated into the façade will generate most of the energy needs of the building.
Many other design provisions will contribute to substantial savings with regard to water and materials consumption. In the context of the United Arab Emirates, where emerging wealth – mainly propelled by oil revenues – is rapidly changing the built environment, high-rise buildings will continue to dominate the skylines of the cities. Accepting this fact, the Lighthouse Tower will become a benchmark in this region with regard to energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.