Forum: Canopies with solar panels can make shophouse districts cool
I read with interest the recent commentary on revitalising Singapore's nightlife (
Revitalise nightlife? Let's get the crowds out first , Aug 16).
The Government's move to allow alcohol to be sold till 4am on Thursdays and Fridays is a good one, as is the writer's suggestion to start car-free zones earlier to support activities for the sober curious.
However, more can be done to make visiting our shophouse districts appealing during the day. Rising temperatures are discouraging people from going out, and the lack of shade on these streets worsens the problem.
It may be time for the authorities to consider permanently pedestrianising these streets and erecting canopies over them. Similar concepts already exist in Clarke Quay and Smith Street.
However, the falling cost of solar panels gives us the opportunity to improve on these through canopies that incorporate alternating panels of solar cells and clear glass. This enables energy to be harvested while still letting natural light through.
The canopies can cut the amount of electricity needed for air-conditioning, leading to lower operating costs. They can also enhance thermal comfort for visitors by shielding them from the sun.
These improvements would make Singapore's shophouse districts more enjoyable and more sustainable.
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