The use of alternative energy systems in housing design

The current energy crisis and subsequent rise in fuel costs has created extreme hardships on those persons living on restricted or fixed incomes. The objective of this design study was to create affordable housing for these people through the use of three areas: 1) energy conservative construction, 2) alternative energy systems, and 3) barrier free design.

Through the use of the Skytherm solar roof pond system, woodburning stoves, and domestic solar hot water systems, the cost of using the units designed have been drastically lowered from that of an all-electric home. Additionally, through the use of barrier free design recommendations, housing has been created which is equally liveable for the non-handicapped and the handicapped person.