Definition: The use of the sun's energy to meet building heating demands
Passive Solar Energy:
Passive solar design uses sunshine to heat and light homes, and other buildings without the use of electrical devices. Passive solar heating occurs when sunlight passes through a window, hits an object, is absorbed and converted to heat. It's usually part of the design of the building, with tactical placement of windows or skylights. The building or home must be well insulated to make the most of the sun's energy. It can also be used to cool homes in the summer by preventing sunshine from entering homes, using an overhanging roof or an awning. The majority of the windows in a passive solar heating system are placed on the south wall. The term "passive" means that no other mechanical devices are being used. South facing glass, also referred to as glazing, is a main component to any passive solar system. The system must include enough solar glazing to allow for an effective performance during the winter months. A helpful technique to control overheating and extend warm conditions in the sun space once the sun is down is the use of heavy mass materials in the walls and floors.
Advantages of Passive Solar Energy:
Solar energy is a renewable resource, and is environmentally friendly
Using passive solar energy will lower your energy bills year round
Unaffected by rising energy prices
The use of solar energy allows for low maintenance
Solar energy can provide heat, cooling, lighting, mechanical power, and electricity
Disadvantages of Passive Solar Energy:
Can cause high loss of heat at night
High land requirements
Brief History:
In the 5th century ancient Greeks designed houses so that they absorbed the maximum amount of the sun's rays during the winter. Ancient Romans used window coverings to hold in solar heat for their homes but also relied on such heat for greenhouses. Spaniards who settled in American Southwest built there homes to take advantage of the winter sun, aligning their houses east to west so the main portion of the home faces south.
Cost:
The cost of a solar heating system will vary. A simple window air heater collector can be made for a few hundred dollars. Commercial systems range from $30 and $80 per square foot. Usually, the larger the system, the less it will cost per square foot. Some states offer sales tax exemptions, income tax credits or deductions, and property tax exemptions or deductions for solar energy systems.
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