Ilaria Rosella Pagliaro The Kalyon Karapinar solar power plant in Turkey represents a historic milestone with its 3.2 million solar panels on 2,000 hectares: a massive project that demonstrates the potential of solar energy as a sustainable source for Europe's future
@bilgin.studio/Instagram
Located in the expansive region of Central Anatolia, Turkey, Kalyon Karapinar emerges as a solar power plant that is redefining renewable energy standards across Europe. Nestled in the heart of a desert landscape, this facility stands as a technological marvel with promises to reshape the future of energy in Europe. More than just a power plant, it is a beacon of innovation and sustainability.
It is noteworthy that Turkey is a transcontinental country, predominantly located in Western Asia with a smaller portion in Western Europe. Therefore, Kalyon Karapinar holds the distinction of being one of the largest power plants in Europe.
The first solar power plant of its size in Europe
This formidable project spans approximately 4,942 acres and houses 3.2 million solar panels. It generates enough energy to power two million homes and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 1.5 million tons annually. The local climate is desert-like, an area not suitable for agriculture or human habitation, yet it offers tremendous potential for such utilization. At the core of this lavish infrastructure is an architectural gem—an edifice that provides the essential technological infrastructure for the project.
The project bears the signature of Bilgin Architects and transcends a mere workspace. Its cubic form with a central courtyard and a facade clad in stainless steel plates harmoniously blends with the surrounding environment.
The design team faced the challenge of operating in a desert climate, a difficulty that spurred experts to devise innovative solutions. The architecture of the building is marked by the central courtyard and a highly reflective facade. The cladding, made up of 7,200 stainless steel panels, adjusts in transparency to act as a barrier against intense solar radiation.
The reflective facade alters the perception of the building throughout the day, creating a visual spectacle of shifting colors. On cloudy days, this effect is even more pronounced, visually blurring the boundaries between the building and the sky. At night, the facade displays the internal lighting and the design of the courtyard through its panels. This feature not only highlights the architectural beauty of the building but also demonstrates how technology and design can enhance the functionality of a project.
Source: Bilgin.studio
