PRECEDENT STUDIES: BURH BECC

Material Energy

Passive solar house with tight thermal envelope and tall cooling tower minimizes house loads required for heating and cooling.

16.8 kw photovoltaic system provides electricity to the house and the grid using 60 solar panels that covers the south plane of the barn roof.

Closed-loop geothermal system for radiant floor heating winter, forced air heat for shoulder seasons and potable water pre-heating.

During the 12-month audit period the house used less electricity than what was produced (produced 26% more than it used). Electricity was pushed to the electric utility grid moving the home past net-zero into net-positive.

Water

achieves net-positive water through rain and snow. captures run-off from roof supplying 7500 gallons (in-ground) non-potable water.

well provides potable water complying with Michigan building codes. a future-ready potable rainwater filtration system wastewater returned to aquafer. black water from low-flush toilets and kitchen sink, and gray water drains to septic system and drain field.

a future-ready greywater system from reclaiming bath water, sinks, and washing machines will enable drainage to a shallow leach field and rain gardens.

the most challenging project component (mechanical, electrical, and appliance products) almost all wood certified by FSC. other woods were reclaimed or salvaged.

3rd party certified standards for sustainable extraction of stone, rock, metal, and minerals.

Agriculture

permaculture farming to reverse harsh impact farming had on the land. integrated design system encompassing agriculture, horticulture, and ecology. restores oak-hickory savanna common to area. provides healthy food for local community.

Theentiredesignisinnovativestartingwiththeenergyefficient closedloopgeothermalsystemandsolarhousewithcooling towerthatresultedlessenergyused;furthermoreproducing 26%moreenergythanitused.