Egypt’s ambitious New Administrative Capital project is set to feature a groundbreaking hydrogen-powered skyscraper. The Forbes International Tower, designed by renowned architecture firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, aims to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint. The skyscraper will utilize clean hydrogen and solar energy to power its operations.
Forbes International Tower: A Beacon of Sustainability
Standing at an impressive 240 meters (787 feet), the Forbes International Tower will be located near the Iconic Tower. The Iconic Tower is currently Africa’s tallest building. The 43-floor office building was designed with environmental consciousness at its core. Developer Magnom Properties has revealed plans to power the skyscraper using a combination of 75% clean hydrogen and 25% photovoltaics. This innovative approach eliminates the building’s reliance on a traditional power grid.
Reducing Carbon Footprint through Innovative Construction
Magnom Properties will use materials with low-embodied carbon to further minimize the building’s carbon footprint. This approach considers the emissions associated with sourcing, manufacturing, and eventual disposal or reuse of materials. It could cut the construction’s carbon footprint by an impressive 58%. Here are some key pointers on how they will achieve this:
- They will source materials locally to reduce transportation emissions
- They will utilize recycled and recyclable materials wherever possible
- They will opt for materials with inherently lower carbon footprints, such as wood from sustainably managed forests
- They will design the building for disassembly, allowing for easy repurposing or recycling of materials at the end of the building’s life cycle
On-site water recycling and treatment will also significantly reduce the building’s freshwater demand. This is crucial in water-scarce Egypt. They will accomplish the water conservation measures through:
- Rainwater harvesting and graywater recycling systems
- Water-efficient fixtures and appliances throughout the building
- Landscaping with native, drought-resistant plants to minimize irrigation needs
By implementing these strategies, the Forbes International Tower aims to set a new standard for sustainable construction in the region.et a new standard for sustainable construction in the region.
Aiming for Net-Negative Carbon and Zero Carbon Certification
Through these innovative strategies, Magnom Properties aims to achieve a “net-negative carbon vision” for the Forbes International Tower over its lifecycle. The developer also seeks to become the first skyscraper in the world to register for the Zero Carbon Certificate from the International Living Future Institute, setting a new standard for sustainable architecture.
Hydrogen Skyscraper: The Swiss Army Knife of Zero-Carbon Technologies
While hydrogen has gained significant attention from governments as a clean and renewable energy source, its utilization at this scale in architecture and by private enterprise is a novel approach. The U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm has referred to hydrogen as the “Swiss army knife of zero-carbon technologies,” highlighting its potential to revolutionize the energy sector.
Exploring LOHC Technology for Hydrogen Storage and Transport
Magnom Properties has signed an agreement with Schneider Electric and H2 Enterprises to explore the use of LOHC technology. LOHC stands for liquid organic hydrogen carriers, which are organic compounds that can absorb and release hydrogen through chemical reactions. This technology enables stable storage and transportation of manufactured hydrogen from source to end user.
The Rise of the New Administrative Capital
The Forbes International Tower will be a key addition to Egypt’s New Administrative Capital. The New Administrative Capital is a smart city satellite of Cairo, touted for its sustainable credentials. Construction on the city began in 2016, with an estimated cost of around $58 billion. As the project progresses, domestic and international companies are already moving into the central business district. The Forbes International Tower will be located in this district.
The Future of Sustainable Architecture
The Forbes International Tower represents the latest chapter in net-zero architecture. It joins the ranks of other pioneering projects such as Foster + Partner’s Z6 tower in Beijing. Another notable project is the upcoming Curzon Wharf in Birmingham, England. As architects continue to explore alternative power sources and transmission methods, they aim to meet the energy needs of high-density environments. The Forbes International Tower stands as a testament to the potential of hydrogen and renewable energy in shaping a sustainable future for our cities.
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