Active and passive solar
6 of 10 from Photos: Solar homes take root at Solar Decathlon
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The building from Team Ontario/BC demonstrates how solar energy can be used in colder climates. At the top are photovoltaic panels that generate electricity. Placing the panels vertically allows the building to take advantage of the low angle of the winter sun in Canada.
It also uses traditional passive solar design: the large windows allow the building to take in daylight--cutting the need for artificial lights--and heat from the sun. The blinds allow people inside to block sun at hotter times.
October 7, 2009 4:47 PM PDT
Photo by: Martin LaMonica
