Green From the Top Down: Solar Roof Shingles
From an architecture and construction standpoint, one of the most pressing concerns is the effect that a structure's footprint has on the surrounding environment. Truly green structures should seek to "live" as lightly as possible on the Earth by offsetting the impact they are creating. Every square foot that a building occupies on the land is a portion that absorbs sunlight and energy and does nothing with it; a portion that could otherwise be covered by environment-sustaining natural plants. With new technologies such as solar roof shingles, the space that a home takes up can be put back to beneficial use.
Solar shingles like the ones from Allen Brothers Inc. function just like normal shingles, only better. In addition to being as durable and flexible as asphalt shingles, lightweight, and low in installation cost, solar shingles are composed of highly efficient thin-film photovoltaic cells which are capable of powering an entire home, as well as feeding power back into the grid. Each shingle produces between 10 and 200 watts, enough to run a window fan. In general, to power a small home, a 10' X 12' area of solar shingles will be needed, while a larger home can require up to 1,000 square feet. Solar shingles installed can cost between $12,000 and $35,000. Most systems are integrated with the local electricity grid, which provides juice after sundown and cloudy days, and eliminates the need for costly batteries to store energy. It also enables homeowners to direct excess energy back into the grid, providing further savings. To help offset costs, the Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) program provides various financing options and incentives. Take a look to see if you could qualify!
Sun Tunnels Save Energy with Minimal Effort
You may have heard that skylights are a beneficial addition to any green home. This is because the more natural light a space receives, the less artificial light has to be used to the illuminate the rooms, saving electricity. Natural light is also beneficial from a health standpoint, helping to improve immunity, prevent disease, stimulate metabolism, and boost energy levels. An especially attractive method for natural overhead lighting is the use of "sun tunnels" such as those manufactured by Velux. Compared to traditional skylights, sun tunnels have a lower impact on the interior and exterior design of your home. With an appearance similar to a recessed can, they provide natural spectrum light in larger quantities and with better color than artificial light, at a low price. The result is an interior that is both green and beautiful!