BURST
Vancouver’s iconic geodesic dome is going green, but not just the dazzling lights that change colour for special occasions.
Science World has unveiled B.C.’s first vertical solar array as part of a major energy efficiency overhaul in the battle against human-caused climate change.
The $39‑million retrofit is designed to reduce the building’s energy use by more than 40 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by about 75 per cent, according to B.C. Hydro.
The project is funded by $20 million from the province and $19 million from the federal government.
Science World’s retrofit includes three solar arrays, which the Crown corporation said is the first-of-its kind vertical installation system in B.C.
The 76 panels, in addition to 298 solar photovoltaic panels — devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor materials such as silicon — will begin generating energy before summer, B.C. Hydro said.
The corporation also said aging heating and cooling fixtures are being swapped out with LED lighting, new air‑source heat pumps, and electric chillers.
“Science World has long been a symbol of innovation in B.C., and now it’s becoming a model for how existing buildings can be transformed for a clean energy future,” said provincial Energy Minister Adrian Dix in a statement on Thursday.
“These upgrades will reduce emissions, lower energy and operating costs, and showcase what’s possible when we invest in energy efficiency.”
Inside the dome, visitors can soon watch Science World’s energy transformation in real-time thanks to a new digital display which will track solar power generation.
Science World president Tracy Redies said it is an exciting time for the province.
“With these new upgrades, we are signalling to our community that we’re invested in building a greener future and that Science World will be here for many more years to come,” Redies said in a statement.
On Thursday, the corporation said crews were installing five inches of insulation inside the dome — a massive undertaking that requires specialized scaffolding and a temporary closure of the 400‑seat theatre.
Postmedia has reached out to B.C. Hydro to ask whether the retrofits will all be done in time for the FIFA World Cup soccer matches in June, when tens of thousands of tourists are expected to visit the city.