Griffith University will build the country’s first zero-emission and self-powering teaching and research building driven by solar-powered hydrogen energy.
Vice chancellor professor, Ian O’Connor, says the $32 million building was key to delivering a genuine sustainable energy option to Australian and global communities.
"This building, which will generate its own power supply, is a model for remote communities that are ‘off-grid’ and cannot access power in Australia and across the world," Professor O’Connor says.
The centre’s core aim was to bridge the gap between environmental scientists and businesses, which was critical for the global uptake of sustainability principles.
The building’s solar panels made of transparent glass. Thirty per cent of the building material is to be made from recycled material and the building’s features include natural ventilation, grey water recycling and advanced water collection.
The centre will have 4,000 sqm of usable floor area across six levels and include multi-purpose lecture facilities with capacity for 200 students and 100 offices.
The Sir Samuel Griffith Centre will be located at Nathan, surrounded by Toohey Forest Conservation Park.
The building has been made possible with funding from the Federal Government’s Education Investment Fund (Sustainability Round).
