This remodel project "added 500 sq. ft. to our living space, about a 30% increase. It is heated in our Minnesota winters 100% by solar thermal collectors, both flat plate and evacuated tubes. The pump to circulate the fluid is photovoltaic powered. These collectors also heat all our drinking water. I created a living roof over the new construction and a rainwater catchment system. Most of the building materials were salvaged from other projects or recycled from my own. The doors and windows were all purchased from a local building material salvage yard and meet energystar requirements. The new structure is naturally daylite by strategically placed skylights and windows thus reducing the need for electric lighting."
The estimated cost for the project is $35,000. It was begun in summer 2001 and is ongoing. Richard Venberg adds: "renewable energy systems require careful and ongoing response to the micro-climate. Every year I seem to be able to "tweek" the system to derive a little more energy, a little more creature comfort. A great way to be responsible for your families footprint."