Awarded the Swiss Solar Prize 2018 for the perfect integration of the photovoltaic system into the spectacular architecture.
Around 2,000 m² of solar panels with an output of 245 kWp supply the buildings with environmentally friendly energy and contribute to the sustainable image of the famous watchmaker.
Cutting-edge watch factory
Who doesn’t know Vacheron Constantin, the oldest watchmaker in the world, which has been producing extraordinary timepieces for over 260 years? State-of-the-art technology, balanced aesthetics and supreme perfection are the basic principles of this premium brand. This credo is also reflected in the architecture of its new building in Plan-les-Ouates. With its metal shell, the building by the famous architect Bernard Tschumi symbolises the dynamism of the times and, with the concrete support structure, the stability of the values on which the brand is based.
Tailor-made photovoltaic solution
Our energy solution also fits seamlessly into the architectural concept. A photovoltaic system with an area of around 2,000 m² supplies the buildings with environmentally friendly energy and contributes to the watchmaker’s sustainable image. This enables Vacheron Constantin to cover 6% of the electricity requirements at its Plan-les-Ouates site.
One building has a flat roof in the shape of a ‘V’ to represent the name of the watchmaker. The solar system follows this complex form in a very aesthetic way. The solar panels had to be specially cut and positioned. To ensure that the solar modules were seamlessly integrated into the spectacular architecture, a tailor-made substructure was created that was flush with the height of the roof. We installed transparent dummy modules above the factory floor. The skylights below provide even illumination, a prerequisite for the work of Vacheron Constantin watchmakers and craftspeople. Our customised photovoltaic solution was awarded the Solar Prize.
- Planning and implementation of the PV system
- Operation of the PV system
* A subsidiary of ewz
- 245kWp PV output
- 245 MWh PV yield per year
- 2,000 m² of solar panels
