Renewable energy has gained unprecedented relevance in industrial and commercial projects, and the Olympic Games are no exception. As host cities seek to minimize their carbon footprint, the implementation of sustainable technologies has become a fundamental pillar in the organization of this global event.
Paris 2024: committed to sustainability
For the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, an ambitious goal has been set: 100% of the energy used in the competition venues to come from renewable sources. According to National Geographic, this goal follows the pattern set by Tokyo in 2020, where it was achieved that all energy used in the venues would come from renewable sources.
In this regard, Paris 2024 has made provision for electricity to be supplied by wind and solar farms. On the one hand, all the venues are connected to the grid, allowing them to use renewable energy without the need for temporary diesel generators and, in turn, significantly reducing the carbon footprint.
EDF was the French electricity company selected by the organizers to install an innovative 400 m² solar power plant on the Seine River. This plant is mobile, floating and removable. Itproduces 78 kWp of electricity, enough to cover the energy consumption of 94 apartments in the Olympic Village. In addition, another temporary solar plant has been installed on the roof of the Village’s bus station, contributing to the clean energy network.
In addition, the Olympic Village also has geothermal cooling systems instead of traditional air conditioning, which further increases energy efficiency.
Saint-Denis Aquatic Center: renewable energy infrastructure
One of the highlights of the 2024 Olympic Games is the construction of the new Saint-Denis Aquatics Center, which is part of the few new competition venues for the event. One thing that makes this element stand out is its architecture, which allows it to minimize energy costs.
On the one hand, it has a roof covered with 4,680 m² of solar panels, which provide around 20% of the venue’s electricity needs. On the other hand, the use of cantilevered windows allows the maximum possible amount of natural light to be captured.
The Saint-Denis Aquatic Center not only represents a significant architectural breakthrough, but also exemplifies how the integration of sustainable technologies can reduce energy consumption and promote the use of renewable energy.
With its solar roof and daylight-efficient design, among other features, this venue not only minimizes energy costs, but also sets a new standard for future sports and commercial infrastructure.
Renewable energy in industrial and commercial projects
The implementation of renewable energies in industrial and commercial projects is crucial for several reasons.
- It contributes significantly to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change.
- It reduces dependence on fossil fuels, promoting energy security.
- It fosters technological innovation and the creation of green jobs, driving sustainable economic development.
In the context of the Olympic Games, the use of renewable energy not only reduces the event’s carbon footprint, but also serves as a powerful example of what is possible when sustainability and energy efficiency are prioritized.
By showing the world that it is feasible to host an event of this magnitude in a sustainable manner, it sends an inspiring message to other cities and organizations.
It is time for everyone, from citizens to business and government leaders, to continue the Paris 2024 Olympic Games initiative and commit to the transition to a sustainable energy future. A good first step is to invest in and pursue quality energy in our facilities.
