Passive Solar Energy By: David Jung

Objective What is Passive Solar Energy and how does it work? 5 Basic Solar Design Principles Advantages Disadvantages

What is Passive Solar Energy Passive Solar Energy is the use of solar energy to heat a home with little or no mechanical assistance. Homes constructed with solar design elements, capture sunlight and utilizes the natural movement of heat and air to maintain comfortable temperatures.

5 Basic Solar Design Principles Orientation Longer axis of home parallel to east/west direction Longer dimension of house faces south Overhangs and Shading Properly sized overhangs provide shading when cooling is needed and allows sunlight in when heating is needed Other methods of shading: insulated drapes or shutters, exterior shades, awnings, and landscaping Insulation To ensure that a comfortable temperature is maintained within the house Windows Optimum position for maximum solar benefits is true south Position majority of windows on the south-facing wall to collect warm solar energy and to let in fresh air Limit north/east/west windows to keep house well insulated Thermal Mass A solid or liquid material that absorbs and stores warmth or coolness until it is needed later on To prevent large changes in indoor temperatures as outdoor temp. rises and falls, balance the amount of square footage of south-facing glass to the amount of effective thermal masses

Advantages Environmentally-Friendly Attractive living environment: large windows/views, open floor plans, and sunny interiors Lower energy bills, year-round High owner satisfaction, increases re-sale value of the house

Disadvantages Without help of experienced passive solar designer, building a home that utilizes passive solar energy can be very difficult A small mistake can be costly Unwanted heat during the summer increases energy use in the building due to added load on the A/C

References http://www.eere.energy.gov/de/passive_solar_design.html http://www.nmsea.org/Passive_Solar/Passive_Solar_Design.htm http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/homeandwork/homes/construction/solardesign.html