Several parts of Hydro's aluminium building systems operation, including its Germany unit and dedicated Solar unit, have cooperated in developing the project together with the University of Stuttgart. The work has also included Frener & Reifer and Früh Metallbau, both metal builders based in Germany.

The project integrates solar thermal collectors in an aluminium curtain wall.

It is one of 10 projects nominated for the award, which will be one of the headline events at Intersolar Europe. The three-day trade fair, billed as the world's largest exhibition for the solar industry, begins June 9 in Munich.

A prototype of the Hydro project will be realized with its Wicona-brand EL aluminium façade, and presented at Intersolar, at Ritter stand C1-530. The prototype is certain to attract attention, measuring 3 x 4.5 m.

The winners of the Intersolar Award 2010 will be announced on the afternoon of June 9.

Hydro's building systems brands – Wicona, Technal, Domal and Alumafel – offer a wide range of aluminium-based systems, such as for windows, doors, curtain walls, facades, railing, skylight and solar systems.