Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, is now home to the world’s largest solar panel mural, transforming a 34,500-square-foot wall of The SunRise residential building into a significant power generator. This groundbreaking installation, which integrates art with renewable energy technology, officially received a Guinness World Record at its unveiling on May 27, 2025.
A Fusion of Art and Sustainable Technology
The colossal solar mural, designed by acclaimed Indigenous artist Lance Cardinal, is a vibrant tribute to both First Nations and Chinese cultures. It visually narrates themes of renewal, resilience, and community spirit, prominently displaying the seven sacred grandfather teaching animals on one side and the 12 Chinese zodiac animals on the other.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the mural is a highly functional power source. It utilizes Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), seamlessly embedding high-efficiency solar cells within the visually striking design. The installation boasts a capacity of 267 kilowatts (kW) and is designed to power the common areas of The SunRise building. This innovative approach is projected to reduce 150 tons of CO2 emissions annually, significantly contributing to Alberta’s clean energy goals.
A Collaborative and Environmentally Conscious Project
The SunRise project is the result of a collaborative effort involving several key partners. Toronto-based BIPV manufacturer Mitrex manufactured the specialized solar façade, while Avenue Living Asset Management, the building owner, spearheaded the renovation. MBC Group and Chandos Construction also played crucial roles in bringing this ambitious vision to life.
The decision to implement the solar mural was part of a larger environmentally friendly upgrade to the 1970s apartment building. Rather than demolishing the aging structure, the developers chose to renovate and retrofit it, aligning with Canada’s Deep Retrofit Accelerator Initiative, which encourages large-scale energy-saving improvements in residential buildings. This ethical investment not only revitalized an underutilized property but also established a global example of how solar technology can be both functional and visually impactful.
Redefining Sustainable Architecture
The world’s largest solar panel mural at The SunRise building serves as a beacon of sustainable architecture and urban revitalization. It demonstrates how advanced solar solutions can generate clean energy, significantly cut emissions, and inspire communities through culturally resonant designs. This landmark project highlights the potential of BIPV technology to transform urban landscapes, merging artistic expression with environmental responsibility.
