V+A designed a new Central Utilities Plant for a university in Ontario.
The Central Utilities plant is part of an initiative by the University to increase sustainability on campus. This new plant is a component of a micro-grid system, which accommodates the additions of solar panels to various roofs on campus, provides a back-up generator and battery storage, and allows for services around campus to be consolidated into a central location.
The building is designed to allow for the optimal efficiency of its mechanical systems. Kalwall panels are used to give depth and porosity to the building’s facade, and for their insulating properties.