Though there are many
opportunities to implement sustainable design strategies, sometimes the
best solutions are those you may not see...
Green roofs
have been a topic of numerous previous posts, and MYD advocates the use
of these systems for their numerous benefits, including energy
conservation, minimized heat island effect, and stormwater management.
However, in addition to vegetated roofs,
an increasingly common practice in both new construction and remodels
in the residential sector is the installation of photovoltaic systems.
While solar has been around for some time, the last few years have seen a
tremendous increase in not only the efficiency of the panels
themselves, but also in the feasibility and affordability of renewable
energy on this smaller scale.
MYD studio is pleased to have several
projects in the works that incorporate PV, and we'll continue to post
progress updates as installation moves forward.
The initial phase of an installation of a
4.725 kW system in Laguna Beach began last week. Due to the authentic
style, material, and detailing of this 1920's hacienda, maintaining the
current aesthetic was of key importance. The location of the
photovoltaic array was selected to provide for maximum solar exposure,
while being virtually invisible from both the interior and exterior of
the home.
To achieve this, the clay tiles at the
main roof ridge, as well as those at the hip ridgeline, were specified
to remain, while the rest of the roofing at the south-facing plane was
removed and repaired.
The first phase of the retrofit process
went smoothly, as existing original clay roof tiles were carefully
removed and replaced with a new roofing membrane, and the mounting
system for the 21-panel system, provided by SunPower was installed.
Stay tuned for further updates as the process moves ahead, and visit the U.S. Department of Energy's website to learn more about implementing renewable energy strategies in your own home.
MYD's next PV project: MYD's plans for an off-the-grid residence
on the North Shore of Oahu are currently being processed by the county
for permitting, so look forward to the latest project news as we obtain
the necessary approvals and start construction on this truly
sustainable and self-sufficient Hawaiian home.