When we think of solar, we generally think of photovoltaic cells. Electricity generated from photovoltaic cells can be a very exciting part of your building design, however the greater payback is perhaps in proper site selection to maximize solar gains for heating and cooling. Solar hot water as well as solar hot air are possibly the most cost effective ways to offset our energy usage with today's technology. Thermal mass and other passive design concepts are all part of an economical living space.

In the Gulf Coast region, our most important design criteria is for cooling and ventilation. Proper site selection, and use of breezeways can help to reduce energy costs. Deciduous shade trees on the west sides of homes is a "forward" thinking option. Combine those with radiant barriers, and you gain both a technological benefit as well as an environmental benefit.

Take a look at some of our recent projects:
Solar ovens

For more information contact Jim Bundscho
jim@homesteadservices.org