Heliofield

While conventional renewable energy sites present an oppositional relationship between infrastructure and local ecology, Heliofield establishes a reciprocal alliance between technology, landscape, and the site’s occupants.

The network of three-legged modules rises out of the prairie grass collecting the abundant solar energy that shines down on Staten Island. Heliofield uses large, heavy feet as anchors and thin legs to elevate the photovoltaic (PV) panels while delivering electricity throughout the system. As to not disturb the landfill cap and minimize site impact, there are no foundations or electrical cables to be concealed or buried. Each unit may stand alone or be part of an array of thousands.  The flexibility and scalability of the system lends itself to the dynamic nature of the site.

In addition to meeting technological needs, the system also serves flora and fauna with a set of interchangeable habitat components that address the inherent ecological challenges of the site such as shallow soil depth lack of trees. Functional amenities are designed for small mammals, birds, insects, and plants and supplement the limited habitat of the former landfill.

As the sun dips below the horizon, Heliofield transitions from solar power plant to nighttime spectacle. Insects from the five boroughs are attracted by the mysterious blue glow created by the OLED (organic light-emitting diode) lights that are integrated into every solar module. This nocturnal ritual is designed to cultivate an appreciation for local ecology and biodiversity while presenting a beautiful otherworldly display.

Land Art Generator Initiative | New York, NY

Team: Yi Choe, Michael Chaveriat

Published in Regenerative Infrastructures

"An in-depth exploration of one of the most exciting urban design competitions in recent years--the Land Art Generator Initiative for Freshkills Park on New York's Staten Island. This volume features many of the top submissions to the Land Art Generator Initiative, which aims to create sustainable design solutions that integrate art and technology into renewable energy infrastructure around the world."