Architecture Wednesday

Ah, the beach.
It's all about fun in the sun. Getting a tan, relaxing in the sand, tossing back a pitcher of margaritas. Don't judge.
But, sometimes, the sun can be put to better uses than changing our skin tones, or getting us hot enough to jump in the surf. I'm talking solar power. At the beach. 

This beach getaway, designed for a couple in Boston, uses the sun to power itself. This house in Truro was designed to become the perfect accommodation for a large family, and there are lots of bedrooms, many with luxurious water views.

But it's what's on top that counts. The roof sports a large solar electric array, with a battery back-up and energy management system that stores electricity from the solar array to ensure the basic functions of the home through blackouts without the use of a gas-powered generator.

The house also includes energy efficient appliances and water heaters, and a lighting system that is also designed to be energy efficient. The combination the energy efficient building envelope and systems with the solar array will allow the home to produce as much energy as it uses over the course of a year.
Nice, yes, but still, a pitcher of margaritas and some beach boys in good too, right?

source