By Linda L. Leake |
4/2/2012
An 8.0 kW PV system consisting of 160 flush-mounted, integrated 50-watt panels provides a torrent of solar power. The system is divided into two sections. The first 60 panels are pitched at 202 degrees and feed a 2,500-watt PV power inverter, while another 100 panels are pitched at 112 degrees with a 4,800-watt PV power inverter. A solar hot water system with a PV-powered circulating pump provides an 80-gallon hot water supply.
Energy performance features include a flat slate tile roof with 0.75 solar absorbance, a custom attic with R-38 insulation, and solar-powered ventilation fans. A radiant heat barrier is installed under the roof.
Interior walls include a layer of Fi-Foil R-7 wall insulation, and all exterior walls are doubled furred with R-7.1 Fi-Foil. Windows throughout the home have low-E double pane glazings, with U-values of 0.60 and a solar heat gain coefficient of 0.35.
The home also features a high performance 15 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio)/ HSPF (heating seasonal performance factor) 8.2 HVAC and programmable thermostat. An air handler is mounted in conditioned space and there is filtered outside-air supply to the HVAC. All ducts have been pressure-tested.
To date, the house has earned 602 kWh of banked energy credit with Florida Power & Light.
“We have committed to build fourteen PV-powered homes that will sell at prices starting in the mid-$200’s,” says Jake Luhn CEO of Lifestyle Homes. “It’s a challenge, given today’s economy, but we are receiving great support from Florida Solar Energy Center and from the manufacturer of the photovoltaic panels, Eagle Roofing Products in California, to do this as a special test.”
Product Highlights
Low-Flow Showerheads: Moen
Low-Flow Toilets: American Standard
Low-VOC Paints: Color Wheel
ENERGY STAR Appliances: GE
Permeable Pavers: Old Castle
FSC Certified Cabinets: Wellborn Cabinet
Recycled Carpet: Mohawk
PV Panels: Eagle Roofing Products/Suntech Power
To see this article as presented in our July 2011 issue, please visit our Magazine Archives.