Volvo, new site
Volvo Logistics Corporation
Several years ago, VLC commissioned Grontmij Industry, then called BnS, to perform a comprehensive feasibility study with regard to a new location. The conceptual decision was made in 2006: they decided to erect a new office building for the Volvo site according to the 'passive house' principle.
In addition to the office building, Grontmij Industry also provided a transfer building, a store, and all the accompanying infrastructural works. Grontmij Industry received the full commission from Volvo and worked closely in cooperation with its parent company, Grontmij. In early 2008 the entire VLC relocated to the Volvo Group Belgium site.
Passive House Principle
Due to the nature of its design, passive house constructions require minimal energy to function. This results in a house with high levels of comfort and very low energy bills, all year round. Energy consumption is at least four times lower than that of the average newly built house, and up to 10 times lower than that of existing buildings.
Activities
- Architecture
- HVAC
- Building systems
- Site follow-up
- Safety coordination
Specific
Architectural techniques:
- Very compact building
- NS orientation
- Super insulation
- Triple glazing
- Airtight construction skin
- External sun blinds
- Sufficient thermal mass
Special techniques:
- High-efficiency heat recovery heat wheel
- Ground tubes and heat pump on ground energy (vertical borings) brought in via English courtyard
- High-efficiency lighting with daylight control
- Displacement ventilation
- Building control system
- PV cells