Solar Homes LLC 

Baseline Information:

• Uses all electric for energy needs due to lack of availability of natural gas
• 4,000 heated square feet
• Currently operates as a part-time residence and demonstration home
• All data based on 2007/2008 utility bills and electric energy costs
• Average February temperature 24 degrees in Northern Illinois

Performance Information:

• Uses 80% less energy to heat and cool than a well built American home
• Annual heating cost = $320 for electric;  <$150 for natural gas*(estimate)
• Monthly electric costs, heat excluded:  $70
• Estimates for full-time residence by a family of four:
• Annual heating cost = <$250 for natural gas; <$500 for electric
• Winter inside temperature averaged 64 degrees, with setting at 60 degrees

Payback Information:

• Designed for < 10 year payback for energy-saving features
• All energy-saving features are passive, thereby reducing maintenance and operating expenses
• Based on a 100 year building life, energy savings will pay for the building cost three times
• Windmill expected to provide 40% of the home’s energy needs

Comparison to German Passiv Haus Standard:

• Standard dictates maximum heating load of 15 KW per square meter, per year.  House used 11 KW per square per meter in 2007/2008

• House meets the 10 watt per square meter maximum heating load (one watt per square foot)