Solar energy has become a necessary renewable energy resource as the world aims to reduce the usage of fossil fuels. Solar Mountain by Mumbai architecture firm NUDES is a permanent installation, which has been designed to potentially power the 3,800-acre ranch of Burning Man with 300 MWh of power per year.
The well-known annual event “Burning Man” brings under one roof a lot of entrepreneurial individuals with a focus on art and self-expression. Solar Mountain is one of the 10 shortlisted proposals for the LAGI 2020 Fly Ranch.
Image: NUDES
The beautiful design features a variety of solar panels sprawling out from a central structure, which architects say was inspired by the natural landscape of Fly Ranch. As the solar panels spread outward, they create a semi-covered walkway for visitors who are fascinated by the interesting light patterns cast by the strips of panels overhead.
NUDES believe this dynamic curving form to be a fit in as another feature in various landscapes such as wetlands geysers, and hot and cold springs.
Image: NUDES
The modular design elements of the Solar Mountain with its recycled wood and other eco-friendly materials make a brilliant achievement. It constitutes four units, each with 182 solar panels of 300-watt capacity. With each unit’s energy production combined, the installation would generate an estimated 318,645 kWh, annually.
According to the firm, it is not merely a solar park to create renewable energy; it is also an interactive installation and community center for Burning Man participants. Its narrative is divided into three parts – grow energy, interact and play.
Image: NUDES
The energy from Solar Mountain by NUDES could dramatically reduce the carbon footprint of Burning Man, which has typically witnessed numerous motorized fossil-fuel vehicles. However, Burning Man could become the face of change and an authentic force for good in the world.
Via: My Modern Met