Tips for integrating photovoltaics into homes
It seems like everyone is going solar these days. In the United States, net solar power generation has increased by more than 113 billion hours in the last decade. Integrating solar with residential projects saves homeowners money on energy bills and increases property values over time. As solar integration technology advances, the benefits go beyond financial and environmental; solar panels are also taking on an aesthetic role in modern architecture.
Solar integration is becoming an expectation among new homebuyers. Architects and designers must adapt accordingly to increase the availability of PV integration in residential developments. However, with careful planning and execution, solar panels can best be incorporated during the design and construction phases. This article describes how homebuilders can meet consumer demands for solar integration, creating an easy-to-follow pathway to adapt to changing home design trends.
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Calculate total energy use and make it as efficient as possible.
To build a solar-powered home, builders must first take a complete inventory of how energy is used in the home. Estimating a home’s total energy use can be a complex task, especially when it has not yet been built. Knowing how much energy the house will require will create realistic expectations about how large the solar electric system will need to be.
Builders can use billing information from similar developments in the area. The total energy used will be stated in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Simply add the total kWh for an annual billing cycle or multiply the total kWh used in just one month. It is important to keep in mind that energy consumption varies from season to season, and this initial estimate will not reflect a home’s exact usage.
Solar home systems generate between 350 and 850 kWh per month. Homes that do not use solar and consume more than this range every month will need to become more efficient before converting to solar electricity. An energy audit will assess how much energy a building uses and identify opportunities to conserve energy. This information is critical because it will help builders choose the most efficient systems for their developments. These additional sustainable building practices can also reduce energy consumption before moving to solar:
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- Sealing air leaks
- Upgrading insulation
- Switching to UV-resistant windows
- Purchasing ENERGY STAR certified appliances.
Determine solar feasibility prior to construction.
Solar panels are designed to work in almost any climate, but the architecture and environment of a home will determine the amount of solar exposure that reaches the panel. The best way to determine if solar panels can be installed on a home is to contact a local solar company. During the evaluation, a professional installer will inspect the slope of the roof, surrounding trees and various other factors that affect solar performance. Generally, solar panels are most effective on south-facing roofs at an angle of 15 to 40 degrees. Roofs that have been in use for 10 to 30 years should be replaced before installing solar panels.
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Architects considering installing solar panels can now take advantage of solar compatibility checkers available online. By entering some key data, such as the direction of the planned development, they can quickly and easily determine how they should design the orientation and angle of each home’s roof for optimal PV integration.
How to Choose a Solar Electric System for New Construction Homes
When it comes to solar power, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best type of solar electric system will depend on several factors, including location, the orientation of each home and the amount of solar exposure the property receives. In general, however, there are three main types of solar electric systems: grid-integrated, off-grid and hybrid.
Grid-integrated solar electric systems are the most common type of solar power system. Grid-integrated systems allow homeowners to generate additional solar electricity while receiving power from the utility when needed. Grid-integrated systems provide a balanced solution. Homeowners save money on monthly bills, but can rely on the grid in case of system malfunction. In addition, they can sell power to the grid.
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Off-grid systems allow homes to operate independently of the grid in their area. While this provides great freedom, it also requires more maintenance than a grid-tied system. Homeowners with off-grid systems need a well-planned battery system to store solar energy for use at night or during power outages.
Hybrid solar electric systems are a combination of grid-tied and off-grid systems. They are typically grid-tied and include a battery backup system. This gives homeowners peace of mind knowing they have backup power in the event of a power outage.
Joining forces with solar installation companies
The growing demand for PV integration means that residential construction companies need to expand their authority on the subject. By partnering with installers in their region, they can better meet the needs of homebuyers.
There are many potential benefits to collaborating with solar companies. It is almost always cheaper to build a home with solar than to upgrade a home without solar. Solar installers are eager to connect with potential customers in the construction phase, which could be facilitated by the right partnerships. Similarly, homebuilders can reduce the cost of installation while offering solar as an added expense.
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Connect new homebuyers with solar financing resources.
Solar requires a significant investment, but several financing options and tax incentives ease the transition for homeowners. Residential construction agencies with this information will have an advantage with prospective buyers.
Individuals willing to pay for the entire system up front should spend between $15,000 and $30,000 on a typical residential solar electric system. Homeowners can finance their solar electric system in many ways. Solar leases along with power purchase agreements (PPAs) allow homeowners to install solar panels without paying any upfront costs. In this financing model, a solar company owns the system and sells the homeowner the energy produced. The advantage is a below-market energy rate for up to 25 years; the disadvantage is that homeowners do not own the energy systems, making them ineligible for energy buybacks and tax credits.
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Solar loans provide a middle ground between outright purchase and solar lease/PPA. This model allows owners to finance their solar electric system with a loan and make monthly payments. The interest rate is fixed and loan terms can range from five to 20 years. Solar loans have repayment terms similar to a home equity loan or line of credit.
Balancing architectural aesthetics with solar efficiency
Most homeowners will want their solar energy system to look as good as it performs. While older solar energy systems are bulky and look unnatural when added after construction, new homes can be designed with more aesthetically pleasing solar features.
Solar shingles offer a much sleeker look than traditional mounted solar panels. They are made with photovoltaic cells that can be embedded in standard roofing materials. However, solar shingles are less visible and often more expensive than mounted panels.
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Solar canopies are another option for solar integration. Canopies are free-standing structures that can be installed in many locations, including above the garage or in the backyard. For example, if someone is building a gazebo or covered outdoor kitchen, a solar canopy can provide shade and protection from the elements while generating electricity.
Solar power is here to stay. Architects, designers and construction companies must adapt to meet the new demands of today’s sustainably minded homebuyers. By following these tips, people can enjoy all the benefits of photovoltaics without compromising architectural style.
Source: https://www.archdaily.mx/mx/990746/consejos-para-integrar-la-energia-fotovoltaica-en-las-viviendas
