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  • 1.  Article on PV imports - more reason to emphasize low-energy buildings and facilities

    ASES Life Member
    Posted 05-03-2022 08:27 AM
    FYI - https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/29/climate/solar-industry-imports.html
    Possible shortage of PV panels - another reason to minimize PV installation size by emphasizing efficient building shells, right-sized buildings and facilities along with the incorporation of passive solar and/or solar thermal as appropriate. Less PV panels will then be needed.
    Debbie Coleman, V-Chair ASES Solar Buildings Tech Div

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    Debra Coleman
    Architect
    Sun Plans
    debra28@sunplans.com
    https://www.sunplans.com
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  • 2.  RE: Article on PV imports - more reason to emphasize low-energy buildings and facilities

    Posted 05-05-2022 09:01 AM
    Debra
    What are the best plans for "emphasizing efficient building shells, right-sized buildings and facilities along with the incorporation of passive solar and/or solar thermal" in a condo building with multiple unit owners who have no control over the building shell?
    Thanks
    Dave in chilly Minneapolis

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    David Hunter
    Professor Emeritus
    U of MN
    hunte001@gmail.com
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Article on PV imports - more reason to emphasize low-energy buildings and facilities

    ASES Life Member
    Posted 05-05-2022 11:34 AM
    Dave,
    While there are no "best plans" for a condo, I can offer a few suggestions.  Main axis of entire building should be compact to reduce overall exterior surfaces from which to lose/gain heat through, longer axis running east-west to allow for a greater percentage of south-facing wall in which to place south-facing windows (and proper overhangs for keeping out summer sun), just enough windows on the north for adequate light and natural ventilation, few windows on the east and west - just enough to balance interior light and ventilation, right-sized electrical HVAC system, a roof designed to allow the addition of PV panels, above code insulation - maybe up to Passive House levels, etc. A MN licensed architect is required for condo design and they can assist with all the non-energy related decisions that go into building design. A third-party energy rater is also a huge asset to a project. I am sure others will have many other suggestions including thermal systems, but it's best to get local design professionals involved as early as possible so that they can assist with the many decisions. You might start with the ASES membership portal where you can look for architects and other professionals in your state.
    Debbie Coleman, Vice-Chair ASES Solar Buildings Tech Div

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    Debra Coleman
    Architect
    Sun Plans
    debra28@sunplans.com
    https://www.sunplans.com
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Article on PV imports - more reason to emphasize low-energy buildings and facilities

    Posted 05-06-2022 10:12 AM
    Hi Dave,
    I think the idea of building envelope efficiency is something that is done at the initial design and building stage.
    A remodel of an existing structure is another opportunity to include increased insulation, building tightness and indoor air quality.
     An existing building not scheduled for a remodel can greatly benefit from replacing dated & inefficient equipment with high efficiency HVAC systems, more efficient domestic hot water, LED lighting and a PV array.
    Increasing attic insulation is also a possibility if access is adequate.
    Condo owners can do most of these upgrades individually. 
    Each situation is different and a knowledgable design professional can review the options and recommend the best course forward for your specific situation.

    Be Well,
    Steve

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    Steve Kawell
    Owner
    Durango Solar Homes
    Durango CO
    stevekawell@gmail.com
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    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Article on PV imports - more reason to emphasize low-energy buildings and facilities

    Posted 05-06-2022 07:17 PM
    Steve
    Very good ideas, and ones that may work at the individual condo level as well as the building and overall Board level.
    Dave

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    David Hunter
    Professor Emeritus
    U of MN
    hunte001@gmail.com
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    Original Message