The STIAS Wallenberg Research Centre extension building has received yet another Green Building Award, this time from the Higher Education Facility Management Association of Southern Africa (HEFMA).
The extension building was inaugurated on 10 March 2025 as part of the STIAS Silver Jubilee celebrations. “We are proud that we are making a tangible contribution to the journey of South African universities toward smart campuses,” STIAS Director Edward K Kirumira said.
Pictured handing over the HEFMA award certificate is Stellenbosch University Director of Property Services, Nadeem Gafieldien.
The building also received a Level 1 Net Zero Carbon certificate from the Green Building Council of South Africa.
The GBCSA found that the building was designed with a strong focus on passive design features that reduce heat gain through external shading in the form of micro-louvre solar screens. The shading maximises orientation and keeps the building’s cooling loads low.
Another important feature is the installation of a 46.8kWp Solar Photovoltaic array, which generates on-site renewable energy and offsets the annual carbon emissions associated with the building operations.
The GBCSA reported a 249% reduction in annual energy consumption following the solar PV installation, resulting in the Level 1 Net Zero Carbon certification.
In summary, the extension building boasts the following sustainability features:
- Reduced building thermal loads by controlling solar gains and reducing heat gains through orientation, solar screens and double glazing.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the building.
- A 46.8kWp Solar Photovoltaic system
Architect: VKDB Architecture and Interior
Photo: MLJ Architecture Photography