Foam insulation in its various forms – polyeurethane (typically sprayed) or polyisocyanurate and polystyrene (typically rigid) – has proven its ability to improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort. With consistent R-values per inch that exceed traditional insulations like fiberglass and cellulose, and the added benefit of better air barrier functionality, foams have become increasingly popular, especially in “green” buildings.
Many Options for Net Zero Homes
As the cost of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels continues to fall, and the impacts of climate change continue to alarm, we find more homeowners pursuing Zero Net Energy (ZNE) homes, with many options for getting there. The trick is to understand a home’s energy demands upfront, to make sure there is adequate area for the PVs, and to improve energy efficiency, which helps keep the PV system ‘right-sized’.
Update to CAL Green includes Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
The latest supplement to CAL Green, which took effect July 1, 2015, includes new requirements for providing infrastructure for electric vehicle charging stations. CAL Green does not require installing the actual charging station, but projects must include designated parking space(s), conduit, panel capacity, as well as designating the type of equipment that would be installed. The stations themselves are still pretty pricey, but market demand and ongoing technology advances are bringing prices down so that more businesses are installing one or more for employee use (think MindBody). This requirement applies to residential and non-residential project.
Maximize Your Energy Potential in Conceptual Design
We can provide your project team with conceptual energy modeling feedback with the ground-breaking Sefaira energy modeling software. Able to plug into Sketch Up and Autodesk Revit the program gives instant feedback on energy use and inefficiency sources. By using a quick Sketch Up model or a detailed Revit model, Sefaira provides tools to find options to meet your project's energy efficiency goals.