from Josh in Chili, WI:
#399
I would like to build my own home that is energy efficient, and will take advantage of solar power and any other solutions for green energy. How do I get information and pricing on these solutions?
Build efficient first, then go solar or solar-ready!
By building your home energy efficient first, you will be able to invest in a smaller renewable energy system and still meet your homes needs. A Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Home is estimated to be more than 25 percent more energy efficient than new homes built to Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code. Focus on Energy partners with hundreds of builders across the state. Ask your builder if they partner with this program. If they don't, ask your builder to contact Focus on Energy to learn more about program participation.
While building your home, there are simple enhancements you can take to build your home "solar ready" for solar electric and solar hot water systems, such as facing your roof south at a 30-60 degree pitch and incorporating a pathway to the utility panel along with added conduit. Read more in our fact sheets, Building New Homes that are Renewable Ready, and Passive Solar Design in Wisconsin. Focus on Energy also sponsors an excellent site assessment program. You may want to get a certified assessor involved early on to offer siting recommendations for your property and project, and also give you an idea of installed cost and renewable energy production.
In addition, make sure that you are installing the most efficient products and equipment in your new home. Buying only ENERGY STAR qualified appliances and lighting, installing a high efficiency hot water heater and furnace with an electronically commutated motor (ECM) and ensuring your central air conditioner is at least a SEER 15, along with building a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Home will all go a long way in making your new home as energy efficient as possible.
Once you've made decisions about which technologies best fit your project and you'd like to incorporate, you may contact a Full Service Installer for bids. I recommend you consult our solar fact sheets for some general guidelines on typical system costs. However, keep in mind that every project is unique, and as always, getting multiple bids for comparison is a good idea.
Published Wednesday, August 19, 2009