Electronics giant Sanyo has proudly constructed one of the world’s largest solar-powered facilities, The Solar Ark. This futuristic building not only showcases the company’s commitment to green technology but also serves as a symbolic representation of their vision turning into reality.
The Solar Ark’s Impressive Architecture
With impressive dimensions of over 1,000 feet wide and 120 feet tall, the Solar Ark dominates the landscape of Gifu Prefecture, located at the heart of Japan.
As passengers on the JR Tokaido bullet train pass by on the adjacent railway track, they are cast under the shadow of this monumental structure.
The Solar Ark’s grandeur goes beyond its size, as its design speaks volumes about Sanyo’s philosophy.
Inspired by the idea of an ark embarking on a journey toward the 21st century, this architectural marvel appears to defy gravity, floating in the air.
In reality, only four columns bear the weight of the entire structure, constructed using ultra-thin steel.
Solar Power Generation and Environmental Contribution
Aside from its remarkable design, the Solar Ark boasts an impressive photovoltaic capability, thanks to its 5,046 solar battery panels. This enables the facility to generate 630 kW of power, equivalent to the annual consumption of 200 homes.
Even more remarkable is the fact that the Solar Ark’s electricity output supports various conservation activities. Sanyo matches the equivalent domestic cost of the Solar Ark’s measured output and channels it into the company’s Environmental Fund. This unique approach not only generates clean energy but also contributes to environmental initiatives, highlighting Sanyo’s commitment to sustainability.
What makes the Solar Ark even more extraordinary is its origin as a result of a significant mistake. Most of the building’s single-crystal silicon solar cells were initially factory rejects destined for disposal. However, Sanyo’s ingenuity turned this production error into a world-renowned, eco-friendly architectural wonder. The Solar Ark stands as a testament to how resourcefulness can transform trash into treasure.
The Solar Ark as an Educational and Inspirational Space
The Solar Ark welcomes visitors, offering free admission to all. But what exactly is the Solar Ark? According to Sanyo, it is “a place where people can feel the vital importance of the environment, as well as the enjoyment and wonder of science.”
While this description may seem idealistic and somewhat vague, the Solar Ark offers a range of experiences for its guests. It houses a Solar Lab featuring interactive, multi-media exhibits on clean energy, a Field Lab with a nature trail hosting temporary exhibits and festivals, and the Ark View Café, where visitors can enjoy tea or ice cream while admiring the panoramic view (even the tables themselves are educational, with each of the seven designs highlighting a day of the week and imparting an environmental message). Beyond its role as a large-scale power-generating facility, the Solar Ark serves as a solar energy museum, aimed at educating and inspiring younger generations.
Completion and Future Vision
Completed in December 2001 by the Kajima Corporation, the Solar Ark is a forward-looking structure built to withstand wind and earthquakes. LED lights illuminate both the interior and exterior of the facility. In 2002, Sanyo held its Grand Opening, and in 2008, the company participated in Black Illumination by turning off the facility’s emblematic neon signs.
However, this did nothing to diminish the brilliance of the Solar Ark Sanyo envisions “a variety of interesting things to emanate from here,” and true to their words, the Solar Ark is lighting the way by harnessing the power of the sun.