Will homes with renewables look any different from equivalent non-sustainable modern homes?
Homes with renewables, such as solar panels, do not necessarily have to look different from conventional alternatives. The design of homes will compliment existing local buildings, and will be partly influenced by the extent and type of solar passive features such as large south-facing windows, solar shading etc.
Low-carbon technologies such air source heat pumps are located outside the house, preferably in the back garden, and may be either floor or wall-mounted. In either instance, the visual impact can be reduced using appropriate landscape features or other design elements.
Solar technologies such as photovoltaic and solar hot water panels are usually roof-mounted. Alternatively, at the expense of some loss in efficiency, these could be wall-mounted in locations where the panels are free from obstructions that can cause overshading. For these technologies, orientation is the key to maximizing efficiency and this may influence the roof or façade design. For instance, in case of a dual pitched roof, only half the roof area is effectively available for solar technologies. This can be increased by designing a mono-pitched roof which faces south.
Are there any hidden running costs with any of the renewable energy technologies i.e. replacement parts etc?
The running costs and plant replacement requirements will depend on the technology. Solar technologies are generally low maintenance with no or few moving parts
Maintance Questions
How reliable are renewable technologies?
All renewables described in this website are tried and tested technologies, and are extremely reliable. Most manufacturers offer warranties on their products and on-going maintenance support through a service contract.
Also, back-up systems such as the main heating system for hot water in case of solar thermal,will ensure uninterrupted energy supply to your home. Heat pumps systems are designed with electric immersion heaters for back-up and to supplement heat supply during periods of high demand.
Enviromental Questions
Will there be any noise pollution from renewable technologies
How does renewable energy contribute to sustainability?
Which renewable energy options are relevant for me?
There are a number of options available to homeowners wishing to go the renewable route. Currently there are grants available for domestic users who wish to install solar panels, wood pellet stoves / boilers, and heat pumps. Please contactNuTech for further Details
Can solar panels and other renewable energy technologies provide heat for my home or building?
Yes. Ireland receives enough annual solar energy to allow a correctly sized solar thermal collector system to provide an annual average of 60% of a building's hot water requirements (the figure will be higher in summer and lower in winter).
Clean renewable heat energy for buildings of all sizes can also be obtained using passive solar design, heat pumps and wood
Air source heat pumps have an air handling unit that draws air through the evaporator or heat exchanger. These are located outside the home and the noise generated is similar to the fan noise for an air conditioning unit. Its impact can be reduced by locating the unit a few metres away from your home or locating it away from noise-sensitive rooms.
