Creating a smart, sustainable and healthy built environment
Working in labs across the country, Volt-Age researchers are producing better solar panels, designing urban wind turbines or developing integrated AI systems that make structures smarter, greener and cleaner.
Objective: Net-Zero
With a focus on net-zero energy buildings (structures that produce at least as much energy as they consume over the course of a year), we're making a difference through applied concepts and ongoing research. Institutes such as the Centre for Zero Energy Building Studies are working to reduce the environmental impact of buildings while enhancing their safety and comfort.
Shining a spotlight on solar
Solar energy is increasingly a key component of an integrated system that approaches net-zero energy consumption in buildings. As a part of its larger efforts to make solar energy more affordable and practical, Concordia instituted the Solar Simulator - Environmental Chamber laboratory. The facility is able to test solar products with full simulated sun in indoor and outdoor conditions.
Designing with (artificial) intelligence in mind
Reducing the carbon footprint of our structures will require the incorporation of AI solutions that can control a building’s critical functions. By adjusting lighting, heating, AC, window blinds and other utilities based on the activities of those inside a building, these Occupant Centric Control (OCC) systems can have wide-ranging effects on overall energy costs.
