Cost of renewable energy?

Question

I am in high school doing a project for science. I am designing a house (blueprint form) that takes advantage of renewable energy sources. It is an average sized home, 2 floors, and I am including wind turbines, solar energy panels and geothermal heat pumps. Does anyone have any idea what the price of this would be around? and how it compares to the price of a normal house that uses nonrenewable energy sources?

I would appreciate any info you have on this

thanks.

Answer 1

You have a lot of variables - like the cost of these systems in your area, what builders charge, etc.,etc. - it would really be hard to say.  

Also, there are less expensive ways to achieve the same goal, such as using passive solar heating and passive cooling (instead of panels).  Geothermal tends to be pretty expensive to install, but if you incorporate other measures, you wouldn't really need it.  

Using all three sources is fine for your project, but I think it would be "overkill" in a real project.  You would be producing much more energy than you would need for a house that size.

Also keep in mind that in some areas, excess electricity produced can be sold back to the power company!

You might also get some ideas from this page on energy efficient home design..  http://www.building-your-green-home.com/...

Bottom line? I think it is feasible to build a green home for anywhere from 0 - 10% (or more) higher than a conventional home.  There are all kinds of ways to save money on some areas, if you choose to spend more on others.  Also, energy efficient homes (or LEED in some areas) may qualify for additional rebates on certain products.  

And keep in mind that energy efficient homes will save thousands of dollars over the years in energy bills!  This is often overlooked by those looking to build.  It is really a case of "pay me now, or pay me later" - in terms of the environment, your health and your wallet.  

Hope this helps!!