The solution
Each clock face required its own clock drive at a weight of 21 tonnes each to be able to turn the hands and as such required its own source of power.
Architects SL Rach designed a faceted glass orb to sit at the top of the structure so serve a dual purpose as a viewing deck and to incorporate cutting edge BIPV technology. Romag worked with the architects to refine the design to maximise efficiency without affecting the elegant design of the structure.
The 233 gigantic solar panels were constructed from low e glass that was printed in elegant hues of blue and purple and incorporated coloured cells for maximum visual impact. The panels were cut into custom shapes to achieve the spherical shape of the dome and the elegant leaf pattern.
The result
The panels generate 37KWp which powers the colossal clock drives and are a testament to the design and innovative capabilities of the technical team at Romag. Like all BIPV projects, the Makkah Royal Clock Tower is completely unique, standing as the world’s highest solar installation.
Graeme Shield, Technical Engineer who worked on the project said “The Makkah Royal Clock Tower was an immensely challenging project due the demands on the solar being at that height, in that climate and in the design of the panel itself to meet the complexity of the orb design. All our BIPV work is unique but every part of this project was innovative, from design to the way it was installed. The finished result is a testament to good working practice between Romag and the architects. The finished pieces were magnificent. It is something we are incredibly proud of”.
