The Reichstag - 1999

The redevelopment of the Reichstag incorporated radical sustainable approaches to design. Its energy is supplied by renewable bio-fuel and the environmental strategy stretches beyond the building’s envelope – enough energy is produced from the co-generator to provide power for the surrounding government quarter. The surplus heat generated by electricity production is stored as hot water in an aquifer 300m below ground. It can be pumped upwards to heat the building, or to cool it via an absorption cooling plant. Daylight is brought into the core of the building by means of a visually compelling ‘light sculptor’. This reflects light from the horizon and offers a moveable sun shield that blocks solar gain and glare. Combined with the photovoltaic cells that cover 300 square metres of the south roof, these measures have led to a 94 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.