London Science Museum

When the traditional vault barrel roof of the East Hall of the Science Museum in London required replacement, they decided to install a solar photovoltaic (PV) roof that not only generated electricity, but also let in more natural light and improved ventilation.

The Science Museum promotes the use of sustainable energy sources, and the use of this technology was treated as a positive step by all concerned.

The PV installation was designed to produce a maximum of 27kWh peak, enough to make over 1,200 cups of tea. Unlike the traditional panels placed on roof structures these glass on glass panels allow a stream of natural daylight into the Hall. When combined with LED uplighting, which illuminates the Hall and the roof structure, the effect can be spectacular.

The PV cells were spaced within the glass panels to allow maximum daylight into the Hall while generating the maximum solar energy, i.e. being spaced wider apart on the Northern edges and reduced on the South facing roof.

Obtaining the required permissions for the generation of electricity on site was a minor problem, as were the elements (primarily wind) and access to the site.

The total cost of the PV element, from procurement of panels to connection to the electrical distribution network was £270,000. An Energy Savings Trust grant of £88,000 was obtained as well as part funding by the DTI and sponsorship from BP.