Image by RAFAA Architecture & Design.

This solar energy generating tower is going to be located on the coast of Rio de Janeiro. It is one of the first buildings that are being designed for the 2016 Rio Olympics. This solar energy generating tower looks like an enormous waterfall. The Solar City Tower is designed by Swiss (Zurich-based) company – RAFAA Architecture & Design. It features a large solar system to generate energy during the day and a pumped water storage system to generate energy at night. RAFAA’s goal is that a symbolic tower such as this can serve as a starting point for a global green movement and help make the 2016 Olympic Games more sustainable.

Image by RAFAA Architecture & Design.

The Solar City Tower is a solar power plant. It is designed to create renewable energy for use in the Olympic Village as well as the city of Rio. A large solar power plant generates energy during the day. Any excess power not used during the day is utilized to pump seawater into a storage tank within the tower. At night, the water is released to power turbines, which will provide nighttime power for the city. A special feature of the building is the urban waterfall. Water is pumped out to create a waterfall over the edges of the building, which Rafael Schmidt of RAFAA says will be “a symbol for the forces of nature.”

Image by RAFAA Architecture & Design.

Access to the eco tower is gained through an urban plaza and amphitheater 60 meters above sea level, which can be used for public gatherings. On the ocean side of the 105 meter tower (behind the waterfall) is a cafeteria and shop. An elevator takes visitors up to the top floor where an observation deck offers 360 spectacular views of the ocean and Rio. At level 90.5, there is a retractable bungee platform for daring guests. Let the games begin!

View at the tower from the coast of Rio de Janeiro.
Image by RAFAA Architecture & Design.

Your Solar Link is starting a new solar lights recycling program!

Recycle your old solar lights, get money towards your next solar purchase! Our goal is to reuse all of the components of the light. The process will be similar to one that is currently being utilized to recycle other electronic devices.

Please, read more about Your Solar Link Recycling Program HERE.

If it is determined that it is not practical to rebuild a light by our recycling partners, the unit will be harvested for reusable parts. The balance of the structure, as well as totally failed components, will then be broken down to recover base materials such as plastic and metal. These units will be disassembled manually to minimize damage to useable components and to allow for a cleaner material on the downstream processing.

NOTE: Every recycled product will be eligible for a FREE coupon toward your NEW Solar Light purchase!