Dr Avinda Weerakoon
"A solar wall can convert nearly 60 per cent of the sun's energy and raise the temperature inside by 15 degrees on a clear day."
The often chilly climes of the southern city make it an ideal testing ground for his pioneering research in the use of "solar wall" technology, which offers a cheap, efficient and environmentally friendly method of heating factories, offices and homes. The solar heating system Weekaroon has developed involves building a metal wall, perforated with tiny holes, which converts the sun's energy directly into thermal heat and uses a suction fan to circulate it directly through the building.
"Dunedin's climate being what it is, this system could offer real benefits," he says. "During winter here, north-facing walls receive more solar energy than roofs. A solar wall can convert nearly 60 per cent of the sun's energy and raise the temperature inside by 15 degrees on a clear day." Weekaroon has already put the concept to good use, working with a major industrial partner in his PhD research on the subject at Auckland University and designing the first home solar wall in the southern hemisphere with a New Zealand architect.
One party that has shown a particularly keen interest in the technology is the Dunedin City Council, which is currently engaged in preliminary studies with Weekaroon, assessing the benefits of applying his concept to Council-owned buildings in the city.
"The DCC is, like all local bodies, interested in reducing both its costs and its environmental footprint," Weekaroon says. "I think this system has potential in both those areas. Even on a cloudy day, where you might only get eight or ten extra degrees from the solar wall, you've significantly reduced the amount of traditional heating you need to make up the balance."
Weekaroon is excited about his new role at Otago Polytechnic, which he says is an ideal environment for someone with a background in applying research to tangible, real world projects.
"My experience in research and development has taught me a lot and I'm glad to have the opportunity pass that on," he says. "Polytechnics create graduates who are focused on the application of knowledge, rather than pure theory, and that's something I really care about."