Stanford University’s new Central Energy Facility is transforming the university into a leader in clean and efficient energy production. The facility designed by ZGF Architects using Morin Corporation metal facade panels features progressive energy production technologies such as solar panels and a heat-recovery system to power the campus.
The metal-clad facility replaces a fossil-fuel-based plant and will cut carbon emissions by 68%, fossil fuel use by 65%, and water use by 15%. It will eliminate 150,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually and is expected to save $425 million over 35 years. Not only is the facility impressive in its function, but also by architectural standards. In 2017 the Stanford Central Energy Facility was honored by the American Institute of Architects for “excellence in architecture, interior architecture, and regional and urban design.”
Upon entering the facility, the first structure you see is the hot water storage tank. The 2.5 million gallon tank is encompassed by 16,000 sf alternating stainless steel perforated cladding and aluminum non-perforated Morin W-12 metal wall panels. It is the “heart” of the CEF in a schematic design based on the human circulatory system. Light floods through Morin’s steel perforated F-12 panels at night illuminating this “heart".
Aluminum and stainless steel F-12 panels are used on the metal walls surrounding two massive chilled water tanks. Perforated metal F-12 panels were used throughout the facility for shading and screening. The overall architectural expression given by the metal facade cladding is of lightness, transparency, and sustainability to match the purpose of the facility.
Morin Panel Profiles Used
- F-12 (30,000 sf) perforated and nonperforated
- 35.45% OA 1/4 x 5/32
- 20.85% OA .0326 x 5/32
- 11.82% OA .433 x 5/32
- W-12 (16,000 sf) perforated and nonperforated
- Material: Aluminum, stainless steel