Qingdao Inaugurates World's First Ultra Zero-Carbon Building

Edited by: an_lymons

Qingdao, China – August 24, 2025 – Qingdao has unveiled the world's first ultra zero-carbon building, a 117-meter-tall structure that marks a significant advancement in sustainable architecture. The building, which houses 23 office floors, is designed to operate entirely on green energy, utilizing a combination of cutting-edge technologies to achieve 100% renewable energy substitution.

The building's exterior features building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) glass curtain walls on its east, south, and west facades. These transparent solar panels generate direct current electricity, supplying approximately 25% of the building's daily energy needs and reducing its carbon footprint by nearly 500 metric tons annually. This innovative approach not only generates clean energy but also enhances the building's aesthetic and thermal properties.

For energy storage, the building has repurposed 14 retired electric vehicle (EV) batteries. These "second-life" batteries serve as an energy reservoir, storing surplus energy generated by the BIPV system or procured from the grid during off-peak hours. This stored energy is then strategically deployed during periods of high demand or low sunlight, ensuring a consistent and cost-effective power supply. This initiative also addresses electronic waste by giving EV batteries a new purpose.

Internally, the building operates with a high degree of digitalization, employing nearly 24,000 micro-sensors that automate lighting, air conditioning, and elevator functions, replacing conventional switches. Yu Dexiang, chairman of TELD New Energy, stated that this digitalization has reduced investment costs by 20-30%, boosted operational efficiency by 30%, and lowered overall energy consumption by approximately 30%. He further noted that the consumption of green electricity alone saves about 2,500 tons of carbon emissions annually.

The project aligns with China's "Beautiful China 2025" initiative, underscoring the nation's commitment to sustainable development and leadership in green technology. This ultra zero-carbon building sets a new global benchmark for sustainable urban development, integrating advanced technology with green energy solutions to foster a more harmonious coexistence with nature.

Sources

  • news.cgtn.com

  • World’s first ultra-tier zero-carbon building inaugurated in East China’s Shandong

  • First ultra-zero carbon facility debuts

  • China unveils world's first zero-carbon tower with 24,000 sensors

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