Information Conveying Architecture: Towards Zero-net-energy Christchurch

Abstract

This thesis proposes a scheme to transition Christchurch to a zero-net-energy city by 2050. The aim is to create a closed-loop energy system so that all the energy Christchurch consumes is generated within the city from renewable energy sources; no waste, such as greenhouse gases and pollutants, is produced. As well as increasing energy production from renewable resources, the research explores sustainable strategies such as reducing overall energy consumption through efficient building design, energy sharing and a shift in transportation. A series of calculations shows the goal of becoming a zero-net-energy city is theoretically possible. Achieving that goal would require all houses, commercial buildings and public areas to have on-site photovoltaic systems incorporated, to provide the majority of energy for the city. The city would also need large off - site wind, biomass and marine energy farms in desired areas. One of the most crucial challenges in this plan is for the public to willingly purchase photovoltaics systems to incorporate into their households, as well as to conserve daily-used energy. To deal with this challenge and turn calculations on paper into reality, this thesis investigates how conveying information to the public could become the first step towards achieving a zero-net-energy city and provide a catalyst for the transition to occur. The thesis puts forward a number of architectural interventions to portray and convey information about zero-net-energy. Several everyday architectural forms are selected and designed, with photovoltaic systems incorporated to harvest solar energy. The intention is to allow the public to have direct engagement with renewable technologies to raise awareness and interest in renewable energy. The interventions also convey information about sustainability to increase public awareness of current energy consumption, to provide information about the value in becoming a sustainable city, to provide knowledge about the benefits of photovoltaics and to reduce everyday energy consumption. This thesis attempts to create an urban system with proposed architectural interventions. Through everyday encounter with these interventions, the aim is to build public knowledge and interest with accumulative engagements and to create a positive attitude towards renewable energy. In the long term, the aim is to harness the power of small individual actions to enable the green transition of Christchurch - starting from small sites then spreading like wild grass over time and turning from an idea into a tangible and marketable reality.