Posted By junipergrp on 03/19/2007 4:21 PM
Hi I am very much a beginner when it comes to Green Building. My questions relate to the use of solar panels with other "green" components: Can solar panels be used with geothermal HVAC? Radiant floor heating? Tankless water heaters? I am in the beginning stages of building an eco-friendly home in Northwest Indiana. Any information provided would be very much appreciated.
Ok, let's start at the beginning. There are basically two types of panels:
Solar Collectors and Solar PV PanelsSolar Collectors - Heat water or another type of fuild(usually glycol)
This heated water/fluid can be used for your domestic hot water and/or heating your home. Works well with radiant floor. If you are planning on heating your home, you'll need a large storage tank to store your hot water. Some people have been able to provide 100% or their H/W and heating.
Solar Photovoltaic(PV) Panels - Generate electricity
These panels are expensive, but there are possible rebates depending on your area. Also, you may have a utility that will let you use Net Metering. Excess electricity can be sold back to your utility(of course, you need to be grid connected).
I think one key to pulling this off, is to
Super Insulate your new home. This reduces the demands that you'll have for heating and cooling your home. SIPS and ICF's(I recommend extra inside insulation) work well. Here are a couple of links:
Solar HarvestBuilding Science - Net Zero HomeEnjoy!