Solar Stories
Rockland, NY Architect Gets Creative with Renewable Energy Rooftop
New York solar contractor Fred Fields checks in with Real Goods Solar customer and LEED-accredited architect Michael Shilale to discuss his renewable energy system’s design. Shilale decided to have a solar pv array installed as part of an energy efficiency project at his Rockland County, New York office.
Real Goods Solar designed the solar array to make best use of the available roof space while also serving as a beacon of renewable energy. The Michael Shilale Architects building, in New City, NY, has several panels cantilevered over the front, showcasing part of the solar pv array to the public and serving as a valuable marketing tool. The design also shields some of the south-facing glass from solar heat gain in the summer, which will reduce electricity bills and the building’s carbon footprint by minimizing the need to crank the air conditioning during the hot summer months.
In addition to the 4kW solar pv array – which has helped the firm save 35% on its electric bills and reduced its carbon footprint by over 11,000 lbs of CO2 – the office employs energy efficiency strategies like a rainwater harvesting system, high performance lighting and ultra energy efficient windows. Michael Shilale Architects is in Rockland County and can be found at www.shilale.com.
For more information about renewable energy at your home or business, contact us at 888.56.SOLAR or at RealGoodsSolar.com.
Tagged LEED, Michael Shilale, new york, NY, renewable energy, solar panels, solar pv array, video
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