With the public sector expected to play an exemplary role to convince the public of the importance of sustainable energy policies, no greater symbol could there be in Paris than using the Eiffel Tower. This article by Guillaume Duhamel of Zegreenweb.com provides a refreshing example of an innovative sustainable energy project.
Renewable energy takes over the Eiffel Tower
Four small wind turbines that produce a total of 8,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) each year will be hidden under the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. They symbolise the launch of sustainable energy in the most illustrious monument in Paris.
On April 1st 2011, true to our tradition, we posted an “April Fools” article online, supported by phoney quotes, announcing the installation of a small wind turbine at the top of the Eiffel Tower, at 324 metres above ground. At the time, little did we know that it would only take a small step to go from fiction to reality . . .
Four small vertical turbines producing some 8,000 kWh per year will, indeed, be mounted under the first floor of the monument, without ruining its legendary beauty because the turbines will not be visible from the outside. Moreover, four solar panels with a surface area of 10 square metres will ensure almost half of hot water requirements for washrooms; and 95% of the lighting for the first floor will be replaced with high efficiency bulbs.
A triumph for sustainable energy
The renovations will also include installation of a system for recovery of rainwater that will be used for toilets and drains, similar to systems that are already being used in a number of sports arenas. Used water will also be put to use: once the water comes down from the top of the Eiffel Tower, it will pass through turbines in order to produce “clean” energy. Heat pumps will provide the heating and cooling for the first floor enclosed areas.
These enclosed areas will be getting a complete makeover as well. The reception hall and conference rooms will become event spaces, and the restaurant and the shop will also be getting a facelift.
The project was undertaken last May by SETE, the company that operates the Eiffel Tower, and which saw the great potential in the Parisian monument because of its exposure to the wind. It will be an historic project that gives pride of place to energy savings and renewable energy. Some would say that this finally marks the transition of the Eiffel Tower (built for the World Fair of 1889) into the 21st century, the “green” century.
The ambitious plans for the Eiffel Tower might serve to inspire other companies operating busy Parisian tourist attractions. The Louvre, in fact, has already gone green . . .
Expected to be completed by 2014, the renovation of the first floor of the Eiffel Tower should bring 30% savings on energy costs. Nice performance.
Energy in Demand - Sustainable Energy - Rod Janssen 