The Danish energy infrastructure operator Energinet.dk is actively upgrading the visual appearance of the Danish power grid. As a result, the large open-air switchgear stations are gradually being replaced with gas-insulated switchgears - also called GIS stations. The idea is to give the technical enclosure of these stations, typically placed in the open landscape, a distinct architectonic profile, and at the same time maximise their future flexibility.
The enclosures are therefore designed as a series of pre-fabricated modules, each consisting of a lightweight shell with a slanted roof and a folded exterior surface which adds lateral stability. Arranged in series, the modules create a transparent, gill-like envelope with triangular openings, letting ample daylight into the interior and allowing glimpses of the GIS units at the heart of the building.
All this gives the design a unmistakeable and strong sculptural and facetted identity. With the progressing daylight, the folded surface creates an ever-changing play of shadows, altering its appearance all day long and all year round. Health & Safety features are incorporated directly into the design, and the lowered central floor of the station acts as a gas sink in case of a leakage.
The first 400 kW station in Revsing, near Vejen, Jutland is now ready for operation. The new Station Revsing is one of the nerve centres in the Danish power grid, through which increasing volumes of sustainable energy - mostly wind power - will be transported. The GIS station is an important part of 175 kilometres of new 400 kW high voltage cable up through central Jutland. The link has been built to upgrade the power grid and to ensure that wind power from Danish wind farms is transported to the areas where it is needed.
The design concept allows the exterior cladding to be varied according to the location and context. The first station now completed is clad in pre-weathered zinc panels, chosen mainly for their low maintenance, good recycling potential and the interesting play of light as reflected on the folded surfaces. Exposed wooden fibreboard panels line the interior, contributing to the acoustics of the building.
Client \\ Energinet.dk
Size \\ 1,650 m2 (450 m2 workshops and 1,200 m2 GIS building)
Address \\ Revsing, Denmark (and future miscellaneous sites across Denmark)
Design architect \\ C. F. Møller Architects
Executive architect (Revsing Station) \\ Kærsgaard & Andersen
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