Analysis of passive solar systems of Norman Foster's EDF Building, Bordeaux

Abstract

In the regional headquarters of EDF (Electricite de France) in Bordeaux, designed by Foster and Partners and built in 1996, the HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) system and the facades form an ensemble aiming to ensure an efficient thermal behaviour. The design of the louvers that protect against solar radiation is optimized according to the orientation of the facades. In addition, the building has a centralized computer system for the management of HVAC installations and a series of automation and control sensors supporting them. A computer analysis of the louvers is made, in order to assess the suitability of the selected design to achieve the energy saving targets proposed by the architects. The site visits and interviews with users allowed us to know their level of satisfaction with the implemented energy-saving systems and with the performance of the entire building.