More Than a Roof — How EVCC™ Turns Natural Light into Clean Power
- Levn admin
- Jun 11
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 13
At EVCC™ PEDAS RSA, sustainability is not just a feature — it is foundational to its architecture. One of the standout innovations is the integration of bi-facial Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) panels into the curved skylight roof of the main elliptical building.
This intelligent use of solar glass creates a dual-function element: harvesting renewable energy while transforming the interior environment with natural light and spatial warmth.
Power Generation Built Into the Roof
Spanning over 11,500 square metres, the rooftop of EVCC™ is equipped with a high-capacity 1,800 kWp solar photovoltaic system. This system is capable of generating an estimated 2.4 million kWh annually — sufficient to offset a significant portion of the site's energy needs, including lighting, HVAC systems, and retail power usage.
The installation features nearly 3,000 high-efficiency bi-facial solar panels, which capture sunlight from both sides. This means energy is harvested not only from direct solar exposure but also from ambient light reflected off surrounding surfaces such as the skylight base, concrete pavements, and metallic roof finishes. The result is an optimized yield that enhances energy efficiency across the day.
A Skylight That Does More Than Illuminate
At the heart of the central concourse, a fully transparent elongated glass dome forms the architectural centerpiece — not embedded with solar panels, but meticulously designed to welcome natural daylight deep into the interior. It serves a critical role in creating a vibrant, naturally lit environment while reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day.
Surrounding this glass dome, however, are solar BIPV panels integrated along the adjacent curved roof sections, delivering a powerful blend of form and function.
Together, the skylight and solar-integrated roof achieve a harmonious design objective:
Natural Daylighting: The central glass dome acts as a light well, flooding the space below with diffused sunlight — creating a bright, inviting atmosphere for travelers and diners.
Architectural Harmony: The elliptical geometry of both the glass and surrounding solar surfaces creates a continuous, flowing silhouette — enhancing the landmark identity of EVCC™.
Sustainable Performance: While the dome is non-generative, the flanking bi-facial solar panels generate substantial clean energy, replacing traditional roofing while reinforcing the site's low-carbon footprint.
This hybrid approach — combining pure daylighting elements with integrated solar production — is part of what makes EVCC™ PEDAS RSA a next-generation model for energy-conscious highway infrastructure.
Smart Investment in Energy Resilience
Beyond design, the system was engineered with commercial performance in mind. Over a 25-year period, the projected solar energy savings exceed RM32 million, delivering strong financial returns in addition to long-term environmental benefits. The integration of solar infrastructure into the building design also reduces load on utility power supply during peak periods — making EVCC™ a more resilient and future-ready facility.
Malaysia’s Highway Landmark for a Low-Carbon Future
With this solar BIPV skylight, EVCC™ PEDAS RSA becomes more than a rest stop — it becomes a statement. A statement that architecture, technology, and sustainability can converge in a single, beautiful form.
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