The following features help reduce our need for external energy sources and make the building more energy efficient.
- An 85 square foot 960 watt array of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels helps reduce our dependency on commercial electric energy.
- Blown cellulose, from recycled newspapers, doubles our insulation from R11. By using horizontal strapping on the walls we are able to increase the depth of the existing 2 x 4 exterior walls to 2 x 6.
- Sprayed urethane foam seals the building and creates an airtight envelope, which limits infiltration and associated heat loss.
- Most spaces have individual lighting and heating zones.