Architect and Builder March/April 2016 | Page 67

suppliers own the entire value chain of their business to ensure quality and offer 20 to 25 year performance warranties. There are 5 SMA string inverters which are the ‘brains’ of the system and control the flow of electricity from the panels to the building, converting DC current supplied from the modules to the AC for the use of the building. The system has an annual electrical output of approximately 180,000 kilowatt hours. 90 Rivonia The thermal storage HVAC system flattens the peak energy demand, reducing energy and water consumption. Individual floors and large consumers of water and electricity are individually metered and monitored to avoid waste and modify behaviours as necessary. Water efficient fittings reduce potable water consumption, as does recycling of fire test water. Lighting occupancy sensors and limited power density keep a rein on electrical energy usage, and the kitchens run 65