World’s First Solar-Powered Residential High-Rise

Brief 

It seems the future of sustainability is here, at least at Miami’s newest solar-powered high-rise, The Residences at 1428 Brickell. The project, recently announced by developer Ytech, is the first project of its kind in the world to integrate photovoltaic glazing within the facade.

Insight

The 70-story tower, designed by Milan-based ACPV Architects Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, combines form and function with the solar energy features blended within the architectural aesthetic.

The building features 500 photovoltaic-integrated windows on the west-facing facade that creates a Solar Backbone on the building. There’s 20,000 square feet of energy-producing glass and the system is capable of producing up to 170,000 kilowatts, or 170 megawatts, of clean energy per year.

“While there are many applications of solar-glass technology existing in the world, The Residences at 1428 Brickell will be a first-time application of the tech in a high-rise residential setting, leading the way on this important first step, pushing this sector of the industry forward,” says Ytech CEO Yamal Yidios.

“From a sustainability perspective, The Residences at 1428 Brickell application of photovoltaic glass technology in a high-rise residential tower aims to reduce approximately 4,700 tons of CO2 and the use of 3,000 barrels less of oil per year, which is the equivalent of eliminating the average electricity use of 915 homes per year.”

While many will be attracted to the building’s sustainability commitment, every inch of the property exudes luxury. It’s located in the trendy Brickell neighborhood, just steps from fabulous dining, wellness, shopping and entertaining. There are 189 residences priced from $2 million to $7 million, and a Penthouse Collection priced from $8 million to more than $40 million.

Each residence has incredible water views and are generously sized so you feel like you’re living in a private home in the sky. The residences range from two to four bedrooms plus den units that span 1,800 to 4,000 square feet. The Penthouse Collection floorplans span 4,000 to 10,000 square feet and many are spread over two stories.