Egypt's Sustainable Skyscraper: The Forbes International Tower Powered by Hydrogen
Key Ideas
  • The Forbes International Tower in Egypt's New Administrative Capital will be powered by 75% hydrogen and 25% photovoltaics, aiming for a net-zero carbon footprint.
  • Magnom Properties plans to cut the building's construction carbon footprint by 58% using low-embodied carbon materials and implementing water recycling.
  • Hydrogen is a novel approach for emissions reduction in architecture and private enterprises, with Magnom aiming for a net-negative carbon vision.
  • The project also involves exploring LOHC technology with Schneider Electric and H2 Enterprises for hydrogen storage and transportation, potentially revolutionizing energy sources.
The Forbes International Tower in Egypt's New Administrative Capital is set to be a groundbreaking sustainable skyscraper powered by hydrogen. Designed by Gordon Gill of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, the 43-floor office building aims to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint through a combination of hydrogen and solar power. Magnom Properties, the developer, plans to utilize materials with low embodied carbon and implement water recycling to reduce the building's environmental impact. By using 75% hydrogen and 25% photovoltaics, the tower will operate independently from the traditional power grid. This innovative approach is part of a global trend towards net-zero architecture, with other projects like Foster + Partner's Z6 tower and Curzon Wharf in England leading the way. Hydrogen, as a clean and renewable energy source, has garnered attention from governments worldwide, including the Biden administration. However, challenges such as scaling up production to meet energy demands remain. To explore hydrogen as a power source, Magnom Properties has partnered with Schneider Electric and H2 Enterprises to investigate LOHC technology. Liquid organic hydrogen carriers offer a way to store and transport hydrogen efficiently, potentially transforming the energy landscape. The agreement will assess the economic viability of using clean hydrogen for the Forbes International Tower, paving the way for future sustainable practices in architecture. Meanwhile, other architectural firms are also exploring alternative energy sources. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) is working on gravity power storage systems and pumped storage hydropower integration in skyscrapers to meet high-density energy needs. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the Forbes International Tower represents a significant step towards sustainable and environmentally conscious construction in the growing New Administrative Capital.
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