B.C GAS STATION

Kosovo

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B.C GAS STATION

Kosovo

Firm

Rino Studio

Type

Commercial › Retail

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2024

SIZE

1000 sqft - 3000 sqft

BUDGET

$1M - 5M

Nowadays, we are becoming more self-aware that the challenges posed by limited domestic electricity production in our region and reliance on imports require innovative solutions, including various architectural solutions. The integration of solar energy into architecture not only addresses energy sustainability but also promotes a more resilient energy model. The application of bifacial solar panels at the project of Benita Company is very influential in creating more efficiency by capturing sunlight from both the front and the rear of the panels. This technology significantly enhances energy production, making the solar system more efficient and reducing the overall carbon footprint of the building by producing more electricity from renewable sources.

Moreover, incorporating these technologies into a building like a gas station, especially in a place with high foot traffic and demand for energy, could be a model for future developments in Kosovo and beyond. By showcasing energy self-sufficiency in a multi-purpose building, we wanted to set a precedent for future architectural designs that prioritize sustainability, cost-efficiency, and ecological stewardship.

So, the primary low-carbon strategy of the project is the integration of solar energy, particularly through the use of bifacial photovoltaic panels. Unlike traditional solar panels, bifacial panels can capture light from both sides increasing energy production by up to 30%. This innovation maximizes the energy output and efficiency of the solar system, making it highly suitable for regions like Kosovo, where energy stability is still a concern. This is the first time a bifacial transparent system that is 100 percent waterproof has been used in Kosovo. The inclined roof of the building, including the gas station, market, fast food area and the semi-open terrace, is equipped with solar panels that generate electricity for the building’s own use. These panels not only power the structure but also minimize the need for external electricity from the city grid, that is a measurable outcome of the project. To ensure that the building remains self-sufficient during periods of low sunlight, the system includes battery storage to store excess energy for use during cloudy days or at night. The rainwater from the roof is used for irrigation of the plants that are seen behind the building.

Part of the process of design was also using the passive design strategies by maximizing natural light that can be seen in the front view of the building, and also building envelope where concrete walls and the concrete slab of the market are insulated to minimize energy loss, keeping the building warmer in winter and cooler in summer, thus reducing the need for energy heating or cooling systems.

Benita Company, in addition to the gas station, also has production of concrete and asphalt as a business activity. So, as a strategy for reducing the environmental impact of construction was to use materials locally. By using concrete and asphalt that are available products of the company, the carbon emissions associated with transportation and logistics were significantly reduced.

In addition to filling cars with fuel, next to the distributors there is also a charging station for electric cars, with a capacity of 36 kWh. By offering this way of charging, the project contributes to the broader adoption of electric vehicles, which results in lower transportation-related emissions. This aligns with global and local efforts to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and promotes the transition to zero-emission vehicles.

Besides bifacial solar panels, the outside lighting is made of Plexiglass, that is environmentally friendly as it can be recycled and reused. It does not release harmful substances into the air, water, or soil, making it a sustainable choice.

The glass facade is designed to maximize natural daylight while minimizing the need for artificial lighting, creating a more pleasant indoor environment by the Solar coating of the glazing that reduces heat transfer between in-out area. Through the combination of locally sourced, recycled, and eco-friendly materials, together with innovative technologies like bifacial solar panels and solar glazing, or plexiglasses, significantly reduces the building’s carbon footprint and contributes to a more sustainable built environment.

According to the solar system data of the company, the annual carbon emission reduction from this project with bifacial solar panels generating 168,000 kWh annually is approximately 75,600 kg of CO₂ (or 75.6 metric tons of CO₂) per year. This means that by generating 168,000 kWh of clean energy from solar power, the system helps offset 75.6 metric tons of CO₂ emissions that would otherwise be generated by conventional grid electricity.

The average monthly electricity cost for the company, before installing the solar panels, would have been 800 euro, or 10810kWh. The actual solar system generates 14000 kWh, that would be around 200 euro extra savings per month. So, the building generates its own electricity from solar power, eliminating reliance on the external grid, as well as higher return on investment.

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B.C GAS STATION

Kosovo

B.C GAS STATION

Kosovo

Product Spec Sheet

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