CopenHill Power Plant
200best ES
BIG
2018
Type
Industrial
Tags
energy sustainability, new ecological paradigm, 200Best, enjoyable infrastructures
Visitability
Allowed
Description
This innovative building is part of Copenhagen’s plan to become carbon neutral by 2025. A former coal-fired power station has been converted into an incinerator that produces energy from municipal waste. This project by BIG studio not only achieves this, but also turns a piece of infrastructure into an artificial mountain for skiing and climbing. The skin of the mountain is made up of large pieces of aluminium that form a continuous grid, allowing light to enter the interior facilities and giving the artificial mountain a uniform appearance. Far from making the internal facilities invisible, this project draws attention to the need to integrate these infrastructures into architectural and civic reflection, linking them to public and leisure activities. In addition to the spectacular track, the building programme includes a gymnasium, children’s playgrounds, walking trails and a climbing wall. While the power station generates electricity and heat for 150,000 households, the people of Copenhagen are having fun, all in the same place. Hedonistic sustainability put into action.