Through its exemplary use of solar energy, the Trin Church sets an outstanding example of sustainable energy technology. For over 400 years, the church roof was covered with dark, large wooden shingles; it underwent several changes and was most recently topped with a red tiled roof.
Through its exemplary use of solar energy, the Trin Church sets an outstanding example of sustainable energy technology. For over 400 years, the church roof consisted of dark, large wooden shingles; it underwent several changes and was most recently covered with a red tiled roof. A working group consisting of an architect, the mayor, and a representative of the parish developed the overall project for an in-roof solution, which was ultimately approved by the cantonal historic preservation office. This is because the PV solution does not affect the features that make the church unique. Thanks to 30 cm of insulation and the 38.3 kW PV system, the church now produces 36,800 kWh/year against a demand of 19,900 kWh/year—resulting in a solar power surplus of 16,500 kWh.
“It’s not often that a historic landmark makes the shortlist for the Norman Foster Solar Award. This is not surprising, as there are many challenges involved in building permit applications where protected buildings are to be modified in the interest of sustainability. The fact that this was achieved for this 533-year-old church in Trin reflects the exceptional nature of the project solution. ‘It has truly succeeded in achieving energy self-sufficiency for the building while preserving its historic character,’ reads an excerpt from the jury’s verdict by Martha Tsigkari of London, Vice President of the Norman Foster PEB Jury.”
The integration of the 3S solar roof has been executed with such care that it has succeeded admirably in preserving the building’s historic character. This is achieved, on the one hand, by the use of satin-finished modules, which minimize potential glare effects, and, on the other hand, by the design featuring custom-made modules suitable for all sloped roofs.
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