Your PV Solar Energy Design Report

We can help with design for net zero

Getting close to net-0* is easier than ever. High efficiency affordable electric heating, cooling, and hot water systems make the target increasingly cost effective. We have a lot of experience working with high performance buildings. Using our energy model tools, we can create varying design scenarios to determine the most efficient and practical way to meet building performance goals. The earlier we are involved in the process the better, as home layout, orientation, and even framing design, can impact energy performance targets. Our process follows some well established principals for high performance home design:

Principals of cost effective Net-0 design:

• During design development consider roof pitch, PV capacity, and orientation

• Have excellent insulation R values and a clear air-barrier strategy

• Build as tight as possible and use balanced ventilation systems for the best indoor air quality

• Spend more on insulation but less on heating and cooling equipment

• Simple home forms are easier to build well, insulate, and air seal.

• Select efficient appliances and lighting

• Expensive windows aren't necessary if shading and glazing-to-floor-area ratios are considered

(A 'net-0' home is a home in which the amount of energy consumed by the building is roughly equivalent to the amount generated with renewable energy systems)

PV Installers and builders, we'd love to hear your feedback or recommendations about this effort to integrate renewable energy system design into the HERS rating process. Contact us.