by Brianna Crandall — August 1, 2012—Green developer Voltaic Solaire unveiled on July 18 what the company claims is the first building in New York City to power itself. The developer has high hopes that the building, constructed “on an unusual triangular lot in one of the most code-heavy cities in the world,” will inspire other developers to move towards sustainability and energy independence.
The mixed-use private development, known as the Delta, was built in conjunction with IKEA, Samsung, Sharp, and other partners. Located on the corner of Hamilton Avenue and 9th Street in Brooklyn, the building combines solar and wind energy to meet 100% of its energy needs—generating its own electricity, hot water and heat.
From the solar panels on its roof to its solar skin, from its aggregate building materials to its innovative window treatments, the Delta is a case study in sustainability and energy independence. “The Delta fulfills the promise of Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC, whose goal is to reduce New York’s carbon emissions by 30% by 2030,” says Voltaic Solaire CFO Ron Faia.
The Delta was built and outfitted with innovative products from Voltaic Solaire’s partners, including IKEA furniture and solutions; a Sharp solar electric system; additional solar modules from Samsung; green and recycled materials such as aggregate cement and bricks from Kingston Block and Masonry Supply; and Eemax tankless water heaters. Delta also harnesses wind power with a compact vertical axis wind turbine designed to generate 600W of power “almost soundlessly.”
The building is comprised of one triplex residence and one studio residence, with attached restaurant and retail. It will be maintained as a bed and breakfast, in order to facilitate ongoing educational visits for schools, tour groups, et. al., underlining Voltaic Solaire’s ethos of philanthropy and sustainability.
A short news clip about the innovative building is available on YouTube.
