The World's First Algae House Starts Producing Green Energy

The first house in the world to supply its own energy through the cultivation of micro-algae is being shown at the International Building Exhibition in Hamburg, Germany.

The recent debut of a five-story house with a front fa?????ade comprised of large vertical cells filled with algae gives new meaning to the term, green walls.

Not only is it being billed by its designers and builders as the world's first "algae house", it is also purportedly the first house in the world to supply its own energy through the cultivation of algae.

This innovative residence, the BIQ house, is on display in Hamburg, Germany as a part of the International Building Exhibition.

The house just became fully operational as the 129 glass panels, which make up its "bio-skin", were filled with a liquid comprised of micro-algae. The energy is produced by an integrated bioreactor.

Besides energy production, the panels also regulate light and provide shade. Moreover, the fa?????ade collects energy by absorbing unused light and heat generation – similar to a solar thermal unit. This energy is then either used directly for hot water and heating, or cached in the ground using borehole heat exchangers – deep holes filled with brine.

According to the designers, the house will generate more energy than the residents will consume.

"The micro-algae on the fa?????ade will be supplying renewable energy for the building's residents and the surrounding district, says Uli Hellweg, the managing director of the IBA. "We know that about one third of CO2 emissions are produced by households. Because of that, this innovative approach of sustainable urban living is an important signal for building construction in times of climate change."

The International Building Exhibition has become an annual showcase for future modes of living, working and learning.