Onyx Solar has produced its photovoltaic glass for the American Airlines Arena, the first entertainment center to obtain the LEED Gold certification, reaching a new milestone for this innovative company committed to preserve the environment all over the world.
According to Eric Wolworth, Heat Group Business Operations President: “Achieving the LEED Gold is a fantastic climax to our efforts over the last five years to act in an environmentally responsible manner, which has a positive effect on our community and on our planet.”
Approximately 300 crystalline silicon photovoltaic glass units, made entirely to measure for the occasion, are placed in 14 circular skylights located at the entrance of the building. They were installed together with the renowned contractor Skanska Building.
This project, leaded by NRG Energy, creates a new 26,000 SqFt covered space for events. The design allows for the Miami Heat to play with lighting effects and create an outstanding environment to host events and celebrate the Miami Heat victories in the court.
These photovoltaic glasses enable the stadium to generate 34,500 kWh yearly, to be used for the building’s self-consumption, leading to the prevention of the release of 20 tons of CO2 as well as other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Onyx Solar’s technology has contributed decisively to this stadium being the first sports and entertainment center to obtain the LEED Gold recertification, the highest standard of sustainability for a building.
Onyx Solar's photovoltaic glass is also very attractive form the financial point of view, since it is the only building material which pays off.
It generates clean and free electricity from the sun, reducing HVAC energy demand up to 44%, achieving a cost per kWh of less than $0,01, an IRR as high as 77% and a payback as low as few months in buildings of Miami.
