How is it Different from Solar Panels?
When people think of solar energy, they often think of roof mounted solar panels, producing electricity that can be used for heating, cooling and lighting the building. These systems, also called photovoltaic panels, are a method of generating electricity by converting solar radiation directly to electricity. The use of photovoltaic panels is widespread as they become an integral aspect of sustainable architecture. However, these systems may take years to amortize and are based on ever changing technologies.
At Design Northwest we have devised a passive solar design system that is a more direct and cost effective way of using solar energy to provide for the heating, cooling and lighting needs of a building.
Through creative design and the economic use of conventional materials our passive solar designs employ the time tested elements of 1) orientation for solar collection, 2) thermal mass for heat storage and 3) earth sheltering for temperature moderation to harness and store the sun's energy and to employ the tempering qualities of earth sheltering.
Because a high level of efficiency is achieved at standard construction costs, the benefits are immediate - there is no amortization period. As a comparison, providing electricity for heating and cooling by adding photovoltaic panels to a conventionally constructed building can require many years of operation before cost benefits are realized.
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