Powered by the Sun

Expressing interest to the architect last week that we wish to be 100% fossil fuel independent, it is our goal to look at viable alternitives to operate the home day in and day out. Solar energy is one option we are looking heavily into at the moment. The home site is locate on a ridge line, where terrain drops off steepily to the south. This is a natural place to situate the home for the terrific views to the south, but also the uninterrupted southern exposure for solar gain year-round. We had the opportunity to set up a meeting with Lee Tavenner of Solar Plexus out of Missoula, MT (http://www.solarplexus1.com/) this past weekend. Lee took the opportunity to get a feel for the home site, how the house would be oriented on the site, and what the options were for viable solar array installation either on the home itself or off to the side.

Lee was able to paint a clearer picutre of our solar gain probability by utilizing a Solar Pathfinder (http://www.solarpathfinder.com/) to determine the annual solar hours we could expect at our site. This instrument clearly pictures the surrounding features (mountains, trees, and other potential sun blocks) on a circular face depicting expected sun hours on a monthly basis hour by hour.

Once we are closer to finalizing the actual electrical load of the home, then Lee can better indicate the solar array package necessary to capture 25%, 50%, or 100% of our needs. In the mean time, we will keep Lee advised of our design process and continue to research options for mounting these solar panels. On the roof, on a ground rack, pole, or via actual trackers that follow the sun's path (shown below), these are all options that we need to consider.

Along with the idea of solar energy, we are also taking a close look at wind options, not too mention renewable green energy offered through North Western Energy. It is our belief that a well designed combiantion of several options will enable us to see our goal of fossil fuel independency come true.

Stay tuned as we continue to brain storm, design, and ultimately finalize our project over the coming months.

Good Health and an Abundant Tomorrow to All!

Tim Southwell