The Netherlands Pavilion marks yet another milestone as Marjan van Aubel Studio installs the vibrantly colorful solar panels uniquely designed for the pavilion. The skylights are made out of lightweight organic transparent solar cells (OPV), that are circular and of non-toxic materials. By combining technology, art and sustainable materials, the studio has created the solar panels of the future.

“The global energy transition is gathering pace, and solar energy is one of the driving forces behind it. Smart innovations are needed to uphold this momentum, precisely in order to make solar energy more economical and reliable, and to enable large-scale integration into our built and natural environment. Harnessing the potential of solar energy also calls for creativity and innovative strength”, says Hans Sandee, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Dubai and Commissioner General of the Netherlands Pavilion.

He continues, “We are very proud to have Marjan van Aubel’s creations at the Netherlands Pavilion. Not only does her design add aesthetic value to our pavilion, but her craftwork is also a direct reflection of our main theme of ‘Uniting water, energy and food’. It is an expression of how we can bring a sustainable change to the future”.

Van Aubel’s skylights will immerse the visitor in rays of light. Through the translucent panels, light and color reflect, refract and dance inside the pavilion. The Netherlands pavilion, also known as the ‘Dutch Biotope’, designed by V8 Architects and a consortium of partners, is a temporary circular climate system where water, energy and food solutions are intrinsically connected. The unique solar panels by Marjan van Aubel will collect energy from Dubai’s sun rays to power the pavilion. At the same time, they also allow the tinted daylight fall into the pavilion and filter the right spectrum of light which the edible plants on the food cone will utilize for photosynthesis.

Van Aubel demonstrates that the solar panels whilst collecting energy, is also a beautiful form of art too. The graphic design is made with a colored Moiré effect the lines and patterns are interacting with each other creating stunning light reflections in the pavilion. The coloured ARMOR ASCA OPV, a third generation solar technology is printed on PET foils and is produced in a sustainable manner. They are lightweight, which makes them easily transportable. The panels will get a second life after Expo 2020 Dubai and are designed in such a way that it can be easily dismantled and reassembled.