Chinese Qingdao opens world’s first ultra zero-carbon building

The world’s first ultra zero-carbon building has been inaugurated in Qingdao, Shandong Province. The 117-metre office tower marks a step forward in China’s zero-carbon construction programme. This is reported by CGTN, a partner of TV BRICS.

The building consumes around 6,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity daily and is powered fully by renewable energy. Photovoltaic glass curtain walls on three sides of the structure generate direct current electricity, covering about 25 per cent of its energy demand and reducing carbon emissions by up to 500 tonnes annually.

Energy storage is provided by 14 retired electric vehicle batteries, which absorb surplus solar power and low-cost off-peak clean energy from the grid. Stored electricity is used during peak demand or periods of low sunlight.

Inside the building, nearly 24,000 micro-sensors replace conventional switches, automating lighting, air conditioning and elevator systems. According to the operator, digital management reduces investment costs by up to 30 per cent, increases efficiency and cuts overall energy consumption by about the same proportion.

This parking system also incorporates a groundbreaking vehicle-to-grid technology, with parked EVs connecting to the building's power system.