In an era where the Dutch grid is overloaded, nitrogen emissions are a critical issue, and flexibility and autonomy are key points, we have designed a concept in which a shipping container has been converted into a self-sustaining office. This office can be easily installed, for example, in a remote location, construction sites where little to no emissions are allowed, or in areas where no grid connection is available.
The Office
“The foundation of our concept was the transformation of a conventional 20 ft. shipping container into a multifunctional workspace that meets the needs of a modern office. There are two desks, a compact kitchen including a refrigerator, air conditioning, and even a toilet integrated into the container. The space is optimized for productivity without compromising on comfort. There is sufficient electrical power to accommodate the standard devices typically used in an office, such as two computers, a printer, air conditioning, and even a coffee maker.”
Autonomous Functionality
One of the most remarkable aspects of this self-sustaining office is, of course, its autonomous functionality. Even without solar energy, the office can remain operational for up to 10 full working days, thanks to a LiFePo4 battery system. However, when solar energy is available, the office can function fully autonomously for an average of an entire month. (Please note: This calculation is based on the average daily solar yield in the Netherlands over the past years.)
A double wall has been created in the original opening of the container to house the technical space. In this space, the LiFePo4 batteries, along with the Victron MPPT and Multiplus inverter, are installed. The distribution panel is also located here, where various circuits are protected.
It is also possible to recharge the battery pack by connecting the container to the grid. This allows for recharging during periods of high power consumption and low solar energy yield. An additional 16-ampere circuit is available for connecting external devices.
Solar Energy
The nine solar panels ensure that the highest peak power consumers are supplied with electricity. When consumption is too high or when the sun is not shining, the LiFePo4 16S10P battery pack will provide electricity to the consumers. When the output of the solar panels exceeds the consumption, the battery pack will be recharged so that when consumption is higher and energy output is lower, the battery pack can make up the difference.
Water Sustainability
Two 300-liter water tanks have been installed, one for clean drinking water and one for wastewater. As a result, the container does not need to be connected to the sewer system. The tank connections are easily accessible on the side, allowing for easy refilling and emptying. This addition ensures that the container is truly self-sufficient. This tank, together with an electric hot water boiler installed in a smaller technical space accessible from the office, also provides the convenience of hot water in the WorkBox.
Conclusion
By cleverly combining various relatively simple and well-known technologies, this office container has been created. This is merely a concept designed to showcase to businesses what is possible by integrating sustainable techniques in a simple manner.
If you have any questions about this project or relevant projects within your company, please feel free to contact us. If you’re not interested in the office itself but are curious about how we create the renderings used in this article, you can also get in touch with us.