By Emmi Miller and Jenny Sulouff Passive Solar Energy By Emmi Miller and Jenny Sulouff

Defining Passive solar energy Passive solar design refers to the use of the sun’s energy for the heating and cooling of living spaces. In this approach, the building itself, or some element of it, takes advantage of natural energy characteristics in materials and air created by exposure to the sun. Simple, few moving parts, and require minimal maintenance No mechanical systems.

Uses of passive solar energy The main use of passive solar energy Cooling Heating without the use of Electricity, Oil, or any other pricey method.

Passive energy in History Was used over 2500 years Greece Cities Streets East-west, and North-south Sheltered the north Rome “Sun Furnace” mica or glass

In history continued The English Dutch South facing green houses Exotic plants in winter Night time canvas covers

“appliances” The main focus is on the use of glass. Glass allows light in but traps heat, known as the greenhouse effect. A trombe wall thick, south-facing wall painted black Heat absorbing material Clerestory north-facing rooms and upper levels, a row of windows near the peak of the roof Overhangs Ventilation Masonry and concrete minimum of 4 inches thick.

How passive solar power works Direct gain design - A direct gain design collects and stores heat during the day.  At night stored heat is radiated into the living spaces. Direct gain interior - A direct gain design with an interior water wall for heat storage.  Heat stored in the water wall is radiated into the living space at night.

Building plan Interior space should be arranged so that rooms with high heating and lighting requirements are arrayed along the south wall.

Cooling Summer’s can become unbearably hot Windows on the higher floors Allows air to escape naturally Windows on the lower floors Allows cool breezes to enter

Cooling Locate cool air inlet vent on the building side which receives predominant cool summer breezes To aid in natural ventilation, during summer use high ceiling vaults, and thermal chimneys to promote rapid air changes.

Where is solar power used Any home will benefit from passive solar energy as long as there is sun light. Best places: Places with sunlight, and colder nights. Places near the equator. Areas to avoid passive solar energy would be: Places that have little or no sunlight for long periods of time.

Why Passive Solar Power Once you set up a passive solar system the energy you receive is free. Maintenance 50% lower energy bills The architecture Large windows cathedral-like floor plans

“Climate Design” Important steps to remember Building orientation Proper window sizing and placement Roof overhangs  Thermal energy storage mass (masonry tiles) Absorbers Aperture or collector (glass)

How Passive energy will reduce the use of Fossil Fuels Generally, the amount of solar energy that falls on the roof of a house is more than the total energy used within the house. does not always mean the elimination of mechanical systems, although recent designs back-up heating systems greatly reduce traditional heating systems and amount of non-renewable fuels needed to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

You tube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl960MkxtM4

Conclusion The fuels that Passive Solar Energy will save, will have a positive effect on our environment. Cheaper than most other energies Easy to maintain Helps keep our plant healthy