Let the Sunshine In
While gas
prices have jumped over the $4 level and consumers have become aware
of "green building" advantages, solar energy for residential use has
emerged from the shadows. Professional builders interested in meeting the
concerns of energy-conscious homebuyers are taking a new look at solar
energy systems -- primarily photovoltaic or PV systems -- for both new
homes and remodeling projects. PV panels, usually mounted on rooftops,
convert the sun's energy directly to usable electricity. PV systems
can reduce an owner's dependence on power from the local utility while
supporting conservation and environmental issues. PV systems have come a
long ways since they first became known in the energy-conscious 70s.
For example, although solar generation is more efficient in some areas
of the country than others, a smart builder and solar expert can
design and install an effective system anywhere to reap the benefits
of the sun's infinite energy. Geography is not a
limitation. The quality of PV panels has also greatly improved over
the last four decades. So-called built-in panels blend with a variety
of roof finishes, including shingles and concrete tiles, replacing
big, unsightly metal frames. PV panels are now far more efficient, so
that smaller panels generate more power. Better aesthetics combined
with better function result in systems more acceptable to builders,
design professionals and homeowners. Even with improved efficiency,
however, the goal of PV design has shifted from entirely replacing the
local utility to partially replacing its power supply to the home.
Most residential PV systems installed in the last few years deliver
60-80% of the home's electrical requirements. The change in design
objective lowers the initial cost of the system while delivering a
reasonable return on that investment by reducing the homeowner's
monthly power bill. In fact, supplemental PV systems often generate
more electricity during the height of a summer day than the typical
house uses. This is especially true of homes remodeled to
high-performance standards. As a result, and because the house is
still tied to the power grid, the excess electricity is metered and
sent back to the utility where it is credited to the homeowner.
(see sidebar) When the owner again needs to draw from the
power grid, his accumulated credits are used before he is charged for
"new" electricity. It is important to note that PV power generation -- and
its sister technology, solar thermal heating for domestic water -- is
not a green solution for an old or inefficient building. A PV or solar
thermal system reaches its full potential only when the house is
designed, built or remodeled to a high-performance standard. Such
features as a thermally tight building shell, above-average levels of
insulation, energy-efficient appliances and heating/cooling equipment,
and controlled ventilation all work in concert with solar energy
systems to efficiently lower the home's energy
demand. Improved technology has brought solar power systems into
renewed favor with homeowners and remodelers. In combination with high
performance or green-building practices, supplemental PV and solar
thermal systems can be an effective hedge against rising home energy
costs.
Warm regards,
 
Dwight
Sailer & Bryan Soth
HighCraft Builders
429 S. Howes Street
Fort Collins, CO 80521
970.472.8100 - phone
info@highcraft.net
www.highcraft.net
c.
2008
All rights reserved.
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