The Nearly Zero-Energy Building (nZEB) developed through a collaboration between the German development agency (GIZ) and the Energy Commission of Ghana. The project is envisaged as a demonstration of how government office buildings may be designed and built to be more energy efficient and environmentally responsible.
Project Name: Nearly Zero Energy Building in Accra, Ghana
Studio Name: S. Tetteh + Associates
Location: Airport Residential Area, Accra – Ghana
Completed: November 2024
Client: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ Ghana)
Photo credits: Augustine Owusu-Ansah , Infoni Media (aerial photograph)
Tetteh + Associates’ design places strong emphasis on minimising energy consumption and prioritising the use of locally available materials and crafts. Cavity walls made from interlocking stabilised earth bricks and double-glazed low emissivity glass minimises heat gain into the building. The facades are further protected by extensive sunshades fabricated from native ‘denya’hardwood and galvanized steel frames. The sunshades feature a soft colour gradient that darkens towards the base and combines with the red-earth tones of the brick to create the building’s unique character.
The entrance foyer features an installation of woven pendants inspired by Ghanaian basketry. All interior floors are finished with white terrazzo while carefully placed rammed earth walls provide accents in the reception and office spaces.
The Nearly Zero-Energy Building produces 88% of its energy needs from on-site solar power generation. In addition to high efficiency fittings, the facility uses a central air-conditioning system that runs on the R290 refrigerant.
R290 is at the forefront of research into sustainable refrigerants and is highly energy efficient. R290 also has no contribution to greenhouse gases. An Energy Management System is installed to monitor and control energy use during occupancy. A lifecycle analysis has found that over its 50-year rated lifespan, the facility will have 50% less impact on the environment compared to traditional buildings of similar type.
Featuring two conference rooms, offices and staff amenities, the Nearly Zero-Energy building will host training workshops by the Energy Commission and serve as a model for future energy-efficient public office buildings.
