Solar-Powered Apartment Complex: The Future of Housing?
by Sean Fisher, Cincinnati, Ohio on 07.19.07
Solar-powered single-family homes are so yesterday. Sure, we appreciate the many owners who have become their own utility company (many times even putting their excess solar energy in the grid). However, when it comes to the other factors of smart housing, single-family homes can't hold a candle to multi-family units. Not only does an apartment or condo complex use much less land (and therefore much less infrastructure) than single-family homes on a per unit basis, it creates the density needed to support communities where walkability and public transportation are top notch. That's why we love when multi-family units start powering up with the technologies gaining traction in single-unit residences.
This all brings us to the SOLARA, the recently opened apartment complex in Poway, California that claims to be the first fully solar-powered apartment complex in the state. The SOLARA includes 56 apartment units and office space within walking distance of services, shopping and public transportation. Southern California + green building + apartment name in all capital letters - you might think this is more green housing for the wealthy. You would be wrong.
The SOLARA is owned by the San Diego based non-profit Community HousingWorks, which developed the project in order to provide green affordable housing. The 56 units will provide green housing options and a pedestrian-friendly environment to a new set of individuals and families in Southern California. When all is said and done, the SOLARA claims to have the "lowest carbon footprint of any apartment complex in California, 95 percent lower than a conventionally powered community." That deserves a big old TreeHugger thumbs up. ::Global Green via Apartment Therapy LA
Thirsty for more? Check out these related articles:
- EWA Squeezes Water From Thin Air, Like In Old Biblical Times
- 1,280 Megawatt Solar Power Plan Unveiled by Los Angeles Mayor
- Let There Be Solar Panels...And There Were: Vatican Completes Rooftop Solar Array
- Renewable "Energy Islands" at Sea Could Power Cities, Produce Fresh Water and More
They're just a few miles from where I live! I was just delighted when I first saw the construction signs talking about it being a solar powered community of affordable housing. And you're right about the location. Vons and Henry's (owned by Wild Oats) just across the street, playground just across the parking lot.
I hope it's a model for many more communities.
Considering how much I pay for electricity these days for a tiny apartment, these kind of energy features are gonna become big draws. Landlords will be able to work the expense into higher rents, and the homeowners may still have lower expenses.
Capital letters! NOT capitol letters!!!
Capitol is only used when refering to the capitol building. Capital is used in all other cases.
Thanks.
-------------------
SF: Noted and fixed, thanks for paying attention.