Description
Many steps can be taken, both during the design process and after structures are completed, to reduce the use of energy. These include passive steps like insulating and tightening the building envelope. In the design phases, choices can be made while positioning buildings on site, to strategically allow or preclude solar gain, admit or deny natural ventilation and maximize or minimize shade as needed for different seasons. Additionally, active technologies can be installed to recapture energy or generate power for internal use or storage.