During 1996, within only a few kilometers of MB's own facilities, a new administration building was erected for Flachglas National Association, which had moved its headquarters from Cologne to Troisdorf. Although this four-story structure was deliberately designed not to parallel the boundaries of its grounds, its unique facade also commands special attention.
This extraordinary facade consists of regular plate glass that also encompasses 550 m² of solar cells and is thus the world's largest photo-voltaic system. According to preliminary estimates, these cells will generate approximately 19,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. This is equivalent to reducing carbon dioxide emissions in the amount of 500.000 m³ over a 30 year period! Ludwig Konrath of Konrath & Nachtsheim, Architects, in Troisdorf-Bergheim is visibly proud of the design: "We oriented the building to the South in order to utilize the sun as much as possible. The success of the system is obvious. Measuring stations will be made available in the lobby for everyone who is interested."
The aspirations of Troisdorf's Mayor Uwe Göllner: "Perhaps Troisdorf will one day become a "photo-voltaic Mecca".
The building's interior heating is also environmentally compatible: 580 m² of energy-saving MB surface heating provides a cosy environment for Association employees, even on cloudy days. In September 1996, Contractor and MB-Partner, Hans-Wilhelm Gaspers GmbH, installed more than 3,000 meters of MB-Euro-System Piping in the world's largest low-energy building.
National Association Director Werner Wirsing regarding working conditions in the new structure: "Those who sit in this glass house can thank their lucky stars!"
MULTIBETON Specialists:
Hans-Wilhelm Gaspers GmbH
Dorfstraße 50
53844 Troisdorf
Telephone: 02 28 / 45 11 13
Telefax: 02 28 / 45 44 86
