/ The Result
611 kWp, 0.81 GWh/year. Visionary Layouts Making Full Use of Available Roof Space.
1145 panels installed across three buildings to produce a total of 611 kWp. This system generates 0.81 GWh annually, covering a significant portion of the campus’ electricity consumption.
611 kWp
System capacity - 1145 panels across three buildings
800 MWh/year
Produced annual energy
/ Challenge
Maximise PV generation - integrate solar energy across every available inch
Fisher & Paykel Appliances set out to create a new global headquarters that embodies their design-led brand while putting sustainability at the centre of the project. A key objective was to minimise operational carbon by integrating solar generation across every viable surface of the site’s complex architecture.
Integrating solar at the new Fisher & Paykel HQ required Revolve to design around a site that spans three buildings and prioritises architecture over simple rooftop PV.
The roofs and façades are complex and irregular. The array had to be tailored to the building forms rather than laid out on a flat, unobstructed surface. Our design was constrained by roof plant and services, and needed to comply with tight regulatory limits (including the volcanic view shaft), while still delivering meaningful generation.
Finally, the system had to be engineered for resilience and buildability. It needed to be able to withstandseismic movement and high wind exposure, while still allowing for long-term maintenance and preserving the architectural intent of the project.
/ Our approach
Making Complex Designs Buildable
Bringing renewable energy to the ultra-modern Fisher & Paykel HQ in Auckland’s industrial Penrose presented unique challenges. Our team needed to work within a limited footprint, with complex architectural geometry, while meeting strict regulatory requirements. By leveraging a BIM (Building Information Modelling) platform and precise engineering, we delivered a highly coordinated solar solution across three distinct structures: the Home, the Shed, and the Garage.
/01
The Home: Engineering Around Complexity
The flagship "Home" building required precision engineering due to the sophisticated, uneven membrane roof and the complicated curved footprint the PV array needed to follow. Revolve's design process had to factor in a number of technical and architectural constraints, including:
- Obstacle Navigation: We integrated the array around mechanical ducts, roof plants, safety systems, and structural components.
- Regulatory Limits: A volcanic view shaft restricted the maximum elevation of the equipment, requiring heavy optimisation of the array height.
- Precision Modelling: We conducted granular shading analysis using Revit to ensure maximum use of space despite the roof’s obstructions.
The result was a custom-designed PV array that complemented the building's aesthetic while meeting rigorous construction standards.
/02
The Shed: Expanding the Building Envelope
The "Shed" provided us with an opportunity to move beyond the roof, and install PV modules on both the roof and facade. We worked with structural engineers and architects to develop a custom array frame that mounted the modules on the building facade. The result was a seamless design that prioritised both the modern aesthetic and long-term, safe access for maintenance teams.
03/
The Garage: Structural Strength in Harsh Elements
For the "Garage" building, the primary hurdle was the environment. The building geometry and location meant the PV array would experience very high wind loads. Revolve collaborated with structural engineers to develop a bespoke framing solution that maintained the solar module warranty. We worked with the PV module manufacturers to select a product with sufficient capacity. This approach allowed us to develop a solution that meet the architectural vision for the building, while maximising solar generation.
04/
A Coordinated Success
We delivered precise engineering and advice together with high-quality construction and specification documentation to establish a precise technical foundation for the project. Our team utilised drone surveys for real-time construction monitoring, paired with rigorous site inspections to maintain strict quality assurance. To streamline the supply chain, we provided expert procurement support for all essential materials and vendors. We also assisted with Operations and Maintenance (O&M) planning to ensure long-term facility efficiency. This comprehensive approach ensured a seamless transition from the initial blueprint to successful project completion.
/ Results
Real Projects. Real Outcomes.
We help businesses and community groups realise their renewable energy goals. Take a look at our projects to find out how.
