Category Archives: Renewables and Energy

What a 6 star green rated home could look like

Posted on November 18, 2016 | Leave a comment

A new apartment project in Sydney is aiming for the rating, with plans for edible gardens, shared meditation space, on-sight water filtration and ‘bio-climatic responsive technology’.

That means it retains warmth in winter and allows airflow in summer reducing the need for heating and cooling adding to the building’s target to use 80 percent less energy than a standard residence, helped by an insulating green roof.

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San Diego – Green Home Tours Nov 12

Posted on November 6, 2016 | Leave a comment

The one-day tour, sponsored by the San Diego Green Building Council, aims to celebrate best practices in green residential design and building. Tour goers have the opportunity to see a variety of “green” features in real-life settings and meet industry professionals.

This year’s tour includes 10 residential projects around the county, including a LEED Platinum-certified home in Ramona, homes in Jamul and Campo that feature straw bale construction, a Chula Vista lofts project that incorporated sustainability at all stages of development, and a “green” home remodel in Pacific Beach.

Hours for the self-guided tour are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets are $15, or $10 for SDGBC members; tickets for students are $5 (with ID) and children under 16 are admitted free. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit http://www.usgbc-sd.org.

more info at: http://usgbc-sd.org/event-2296833

What you should know before going solar

Posted on October 28, 2016 | Leave a comment

How do home solar systems work?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are made from silicon cells that join together to form a circuit. The panel collects the sun’s energy and makes direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter changes the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is what most homes use. The inverter is a metal box connected to a meter, which in turn is connected to the utility’s electric grid.

How can I pay for a solar system?

You can get a solar or home improvement loan from a bank or go through a private solar financing company. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority has low-rate loans and financing options available, some of which can be paid through your monthly utility bill. The return on investment for most home solar systems is five to seven years.

Should I lease or buy?

About a decade ago, leasing was the way to go, since the price of a home solar system was high. Now that prices have come down by 70 percent, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association, it is better to pay for something you will eventually own.

Will solar add value to your home? Contact the appraisers at www.scappraisals.com They have been appraising solar and energy efficient properties for over 8 years.