[Greenbuilding] No Fracking Way?

[Corwyn]

On 4/18/2011 3:15 PM, Frank Cetera wrote:

> Implementing an urban home retrofit using only electrical powered
> systems, with the potential of becoming an off-grid site in the future
> through reduced energy consumption and on-site generation (with purchase
> of alternative sources in the short-term), in order to relieve our
> dependence on natural gas as a fuel source due to its potential for high
> environmental damage.  (This would not be a super-insulated passivhaus
> sort of design and would rely on natural materials as much as possible
> for air sealing, insulation, and built additions/restorations)

What advantages do you see in going off-grid in an urban environment? 
Unless your utility gives you a really horrible deal on your produced 
electricity, it is better for you, and everyone else for you to just go 
grid-tie.

Reduction of energy use should always be your first objective.  If you 
are unsure about what each change will do for you in energy terms, I 
recommend you get a competent energy audit.  Then adjust their 
recommendations by what you are actually going to be paying for your 
energy.  This should give you a good idea about what will be most 
beneficial for you.  Don't start with the idea that you aren't going to 
do Passivhaus standard; start with the numbers and see where they lead.

Natural material air sealing is tough.  Sadly, you may have to relax 
that a bit.  If not, let s know what you did!


Thank You Kindly,

Corwyn

-- 
Topher Belknap
Green Fret Consulting
Kermit didn't know the half of it...
http://www.greenfret.com/
topher at greenfret.com
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