The INES (Institut National des Energies Solaires) was born in 2007, as a government initiative to promote and develop the use of solar energy in France, and more specifically to control energy consumption in the construction field.
The center is implanted in the Savoie-Technolac Technological Park, in Le Bourget du Lac, near Chambéry. Choosing the Rhône-Alpes region was justified by a dense network of industries, research teams, townships and volunteer groups involved in this field.
Architectural Focus :
Bernard MAILLET – architect
The project consists in twin buildings that house scientific laboratories which are rationally laid out on either side of an axis conveying a number of equipments (cold production, special fluids, clean water…).
The first building houses the photovoltaic cell production in a clean room, as well as a research team dedicated to electricity production.
The second building houses a research center dedicated to thermal exchange systems (solar panels, geothermal processors) as well as the test center for applications in the solar energy field (CSTB).
These buildings are the foundation of a unique solar testing platform, which covers a total area of 1000 sq/m. The research teams are able to test any type of sensor, and can set up their experiments behind shields at a height of 10 m.
Although it is extremely simple in its contours, the building’s unusual silhouette is so strongly defined by its function that most visitors are stunned when they discover it. The metal framework that carries the project is outwardly convered in laquered panels. Particular attention was given to the offices facing west that required shielding from the sun. The reception hall elevation can be completely screened by laquered venetian blinds, and dress in the orange color of the INES.
Design contest winner 2007
Client : SAS
Surface area : 3600 m²
Concrete structure : Kéops
Steel structure : Duverney
