7. Ive

This house was built in 1994 and is rather large at 4,665 square feet. The renewable energy application here is a very large, grid tied photovoltaic array (9.13 kW) comprised of 48 double bi-facial panels. The system also acts as shade over the patio – but allows light through at the same time! It is a sealed roof so that the patio can be enjoyed during rain or snow, with all the wiring hidden. The panels are called “glass on glass” and allow the light between the cells to transmit through the panels. This provides bright enough light to enjoy the patio while still shading it during the summer months.

The collector array is large enough to prevent any sunshine from entering the house during the cooling season. An interesting point is that the light that is reflected around the patio and to the backside of the collector can be used to collect up to 30% more energy.

Photovoltaic Panels
9.13 kW
grid tied

Thermal Envelope / Thermal Comfort
Low-e windows
Whole House Fans
Expanding foam insulation around windows and outlets
Night setback thermostats

Construction
2 x 8 walls