Egypt’s first solar-powered village rises from the desert in Bahariya Oasis

Egypt's first solar-powered village has risen from the desert. Located in Bahariya Oasis and powered by building-integrated solar panels, KarmBuild's Tayebat Workers Village currently provides shelter for 350 people. KarmBuild says it is "the only company in Egypt to integrate solar technology into a building's design", and its use of local, natural materials ensures a gentle environmental footprint.

Principal architect Karim Kafrawi said in Egypt, solar panels are often seen as unattractive, too industrial, and “not practical in architecture integration.” KarmBuild’s innovative methods could upend those unfavorable views. Their solar integration designs allow the region to benefit from plentiful sunlight in a seamless, elegant manner. Photovoltaic solar panels adorn the rooftops of the Tayebat Workers Village, but in such a way that they blend in the stone walls of the village. The rooftop solar panels also act as “thermal roof protection,” according to Kafrawi.

[Full article here | Photo by eviljohnius]