Rising in Melbourne, 550 Spencer is recognized as Australia’s first office building equipped with an active solar façade system. Designed by Kennon, the structure integrates 1,182 photovoltaic panels without compromising the appearance of a traditional curtain wall. Through collaborations with both local and international partners, the project redefines the boundaries of sustainable architecture.
Kennon’s design makes solar energy generation a core architectural function of the building. By adapting the Europe-based Skala system for the first time in Australia, the project succeeds in reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 70 tons annually. Solid panels on the north-facing façade capture maximum sunlight, while the southern façade’s transparent glass reduces heat gain and enhances indoor comfort.
The eight-story building accommodates both commercial and public uses, integrating its solar façade system as both a technical and aesthetic solution. Thanks to panels that visually resemble conventional glazing, 550 Spencer is perceived as a typical office building—yet it performs at a radically higher level in terms of energy efficiency. With no rooftop panels, the design opens space for a landscaped terrace, directly enriching user experience.
By transforming solar energy into a visible architectural element, Kennon demonstrates that buildings can be more than physical shelters—they can also serve as active expressions of environmental responsibility. The self-sufficient energy system operates without connection to the grid or reliance on batteries, making 550 Spencer a truly fossil-free model.
Beyond its technical innovation, 550 Spencer sets an example at the urban scale. Located on one of Melbourne’s redeveloping main thoroughfares, it offers inspiration for both local authorities and investors. With its boundary-pushing balance of energy performance and architectural integrity, the project earns its place as the first example of a solar-powered façade in Australia.
