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WisconSUN Case Study:
McKay Center - University of Wisconsin Arboretum
Owner: University of Wisconsin Madison
Location: Madison, WI
Description: Combined the active and passive solar heating systems provide
44% of the building heating requirements
Size: 1350 ft2 of collector area and 16 ton pebble bed for
heat storage, 62 kW thermal energy
Installed: 1978
The McKay Center overlooks the world's oldest restored tallgrass prairie. The 4,600 ft2 center is home to a visitor center, arboretum staff offices, and meeting rooms.
The center's heating load is largely met by a combination of passive solar heating and the active solar air heating system with a 16-ton pebble bed. The pebble bed, located in the basement, stores the thermal energy until it is needed to heat the building during winter nights and cloudy days.
The 70 solar collectors are oriented due south and have a 55o slope to catch the winter sun and shed snow quickly. After over 20 years of continuous operation, the system continues to operate effectively.
A conference center was added to the McKay Center in 2001. The addition is roofed with photovoltaic modules called SunSlates. Click here to read the WisconSUN case study.
Photo Credits
Josh Paisted, UW Madison Solar Lab
copyright © 2000 WisconSUN
