A solar ray of hope
Developer Ron Monahan and architect George Watt spent much of Tuesday morning checking out the sun.
Specifically, they were looking at lots at Monahan's new Ridge at Chukker Creek development, using a device called a solar pathfinder to track the sun as one factor in determining lots that would be best for "net-zero" homes.
"Net-zero is a home that will generate as much energy as they need over a year," said Watt at a press conference Tuesday afternoon. The intent is that the homeowner will have no power bill for heating and cooling.
Monahan plans to begin construction on at least one such residence at the Ridge at Chukker Creek and believes it will be the first of its kind in South Carolina. All the homes will be built to be highly energy-efficient, he said.
Watt and Monahan are Boulder, Colo. residents, but Monahan has relatives in Aiken and has been a frequent visitor to the community.
The net-zero residences will have HVAC systems that one would find in any home, along with photovoltaic solar panels, Watt said. The solar pathfinder dates back as long as three decades. The solar panels, however, have evolved substantially.
"They're much more efficient and affordable," Watt said. "They're more readily available in the marketplace, because of tax credits from the federal government. The solar panels on the roof facing south will be integrated into the building. They're not add-on's."
Monahan said he and Watt had identified 11 lots from the Ridge at Chukker Creek project's first phase of 75 homes. He expects more in the larger second phase.
According to a press release, other energy conservation incentives are expected to increase as a result of the anticipated economic stimulus package. These measures include blowing in foam insulation under the roof, walls and floor; and finding and sealing air leaks.
Aiken Mayor Fred Cavanaugh attended the press conference and thanked Monahan and Watt for their willingness to advise the city on its revitalization efforts on the Northside, specifically in Edgewood subdivision and Crosland Park.
"We're looking forward to this," said Cavanaugh. "Some of these same things can be applied to our houses."
Monahan said he's been a supporter of the city's efforts "from day one. "It's a new concept to bring to development in the City of Aiken," he said.
Contact Rob Novit at rnovit@aikenstandard.com.