Alternative energy

  • Passive Solar Building Design
  • Living Roofs
  • Rainwater Systems
  • Sustainable Material Selection
  • Cost incentives

What is sustainable development?

Sustainable development involves creating a building or home that uses less energy, water and natural resources, creates less waste and is healthier for those living or working in the structure. Ask about cost incentives currently available

The Earth Advantage approach

Choose from the following measures to fit your house, style and budget. These measures have been selected for their comfort, practicality, efficiency, environmental and health benefits.

HEALTHIER INDOOR AIR: Eliminate or reduce sources of pollution.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY: Reduce and recycle construction waste safely, recharge groundwater, protect soil and existing trees, naturescape, use safe and sustainable building materials, use land wisely and utilize the sun.

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY: Use composites and advanced framing techniques, use salvaged or wood alternatives, choose safe and recycled materials, incorporate water efficient fixtures and irrigation

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Control air leakage, insulate continuously, select efficient heating/cooling systems, appliances, lighting and windows

Passive solar design features

  • The building layout maximizes passive solar gain and good daylighting
  • At least half the windows are solar windows (new construction)
  • There is sufficient solar window area
  • South windows have an SHGC not less than 0.60
  • The area-weighted average window heat loss rate is not greater than 0.35
  • There is adequate thermal storage to prevent overheating
  • Window overhangs shade most of the window during the summer, but allow 100 pecent solar gain in the late fall
  • The space heating sun chart shows less than 10 percent shading loss from trees or buildings
  • North windows are less than 2 percent of the total floor area
  • Skylights are less than 1 percent of the floor area and have an SHGC of no more than 0.30
  • West facing windows have an SHGC of 0.35 or less to limit summertime overheating
  • Passive cooling is possible with an operable window or skylight is located nearest the highest point