Sustainability at Melrose Arch

As South Africa migrates to an off-grid economy, one mixed-use precinct is leading the way with its sustainability prowess. Melrose Arch has a thriving waste separating facility, underground cooling plant, gardens and rooftop solar system, providing its hotels, businesses and residential properties with an unparalleled experience.
After blasting and bulk earthworks commenced in the year 1998, Melrose Arch opened with a limited upmarket facility, with phase 1 consisting of only 11 buildings in 2001. It was constructed on a super basement that connects all areas of the precinct and remains the only one of this kind in the country. Parking cars in the basement reduce traffic congestion and assist in reducing ambient air pollution above ground. Therefore, walking on street level is safe and pleasurable.
The solar installation on the rooftop of the Melrose Arch precinct is meticulously spread across 16 distinct roof areas, with every building involved in the shared venture agreement making full use of their rooftops to house solar panels. At present, the system boasts 7,811 solar panels along with multiple inverters, collectively contributing to approximately 3.2 Megawatt (MW) of green energy on an annual basis. During load shedding, this grid-connected system collaborates with various generators to ensure an uninterrupted power supply.
Melrose Arch takes pride in presenting their eco-friendly center and waste-separating facility. Operating 24/7, this facility sorts various materials like paper, cardboard, metals, plastics, and glass for recycling purposes. The diverse eateries, cafes, and bars within the precinct have also adopted a system for separating food waste in their kitchens. This approach of separating food waste at its source enables efficient recycling and conversion into valuable resources such as compost. The food waste is then taken to the Urban Farms Recycling Center where it is converted into organic fertilizer.
Automated cleaning equipment is used to perform thorough cleaning routines on the walkways at ground level and basement parking areas in order to maintain the pristine and organized appearance of the district.
The provision of efficient indoor climate and comfort, particularly in the offices and commercial buildings, has been prioritized since the inception of Melrose Arch’s development. The precinct boasts its own 1,471m² district underground cooling plant, that operates 24/7. This remarkable facility includes eight chillers that are 2722.94kW in size, 12 cooling towers and five building water pumps. Operated by a Building Management System, the plant is energy-efficient. The cooling is centrally produced and distributes cold water to each building through a closed
distribution network.
Our precinct's well-maintained roads undergo continuous improvement, boasting a European street-style aesthetic with paved surfaces.
Melrose Arch’s streets are lined with greenery. The precinct has over 700 trees planted within its border, as well as five internal garden spaces creating green lungs for residents and tenants to enjoy.
Our water installations and fountains at 39 Melrose Boulevard offer a sense of tranquillity and calm. In addition, the famous fountain at 23 Melrose Boulevard is a popular spot for photographic shoots due to its iconic status.
For further details on Melrose Arch, visit melrosearch.co...
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