Clark University

Worcester, MA

Clark University wanted their newest addition to campus to be as energy efficient as possible. They retained Architerra, a Boston-based architectural firm well known for sustainable design and Architerra retained SDA for our innovative solar power solutions. With this being the first solar-powered building on campus, the University wanted to emphasize its energy credentials. The architects proposed to float the solar array on a trellis 15 feet above the roof and cantilever it out beyond the edge of the building. This provided the desired results while accommodating all rooftop equipment beneath the array with full air circulation.

SDA collaborated closely with the design architects and the structural engineers to design a unique, integrated, solar array that maximizes solar harvest and developed the structural interface to satisfy wind loading on the unique structure. SDA served as Engineer-of-Record for the solar system providing full design and engineering, complete construction documents, procurement assistance, liaison with code and utility officials, construction oversight, and full system commissioning. The project’s general contractor had concern that the custom solar array was beyond the capabilities of the average solar contractor, so SDA was asked to construct it and completed the system on a turnkey design/build basis.