Our avid readers are aware that we have been extensively covering the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. According to reports, the famous cathedral of Paris might be getting a new roof that will be harnessing the power of the sun and provide enough energy to power the nearby buildings. All of this is subject to getting approval for the solar power design, of course. The design has been put forth by Vincent Callebaut Architectures.
Vincent Callebaut Architectures believes that the suggested design could help the famous and iconic landmark to transform into an energy-positive building. The suggested roof is made up of diamond-shaped glass panels that are propped up using laminated wooden beams.
According to the design that has been suggested by Vincent Callebaut Architectures, the panels will be used for storing solar power in hydrogen fuel cells. For those who are unaware, Vincent Callebaut Architectures is based in Paris. The firm further added that since more than required energy will be stored from the roof of the cathedral, the excess energy could be given to the nearby buildings.
The roof will also feature a garden that will provide vegetables and fruit for the poor and homeless of the city. The glass sections in the ceiling will separate the roof from the interior while enabling the natural light to enter the nave of the cathedral from up above. This might prove to be controversial, since while many would prefer a brighter nave; it will somewhat take the focus away from the light that makes its way from the stained glass windows that are considered a defining trait.
The design that has been submitted by the firm is one among the many that have been submitted after the French government inaugurated an international competition for designing the new roof of Notre Dame Cathedral after the previous timber roof was damaged during the fire earlier this year.