Page 23 - Green Builder Magazine January 2016 Digital Edition
P. 23
GROW HOME http://grow.buffalo.edu
SOLAR STRATEGY
Active Array
The 7-kW PV array
consists of 24 Silevo
panels with a rated
efficiency of 17.2
percent. A solar
thermal system
provides hot water.
Multi-Functional Canopy
A canopy provides structure for the PV array,
serves as a trellis for plants and reduces
cooling loads by shading the house.
Flexible Design
The sliding glass doors allow
occupants to manage energy and
airflow for maximum comfort
and efficiency. The planters can
be rolled inside at night, releasing
stored heat and reducing
demand on the HVAC system.
Thermal Buffer
The GRoWlarium buffers the home from
extreme heat and cold and can be used to
grow food all year round. It blurs the lines
between indoor and outdoor living and
encourages engagement with nature.
CREDIT: THOMAS KELSEY, U.S. DOE SOLAR DECATHLON
