Mayor puts power back in to grid

Unveils energy self-sufficient homes

provided by The City of San Diego

ayor Dick Murphy last month celebrated San Diego's first energy self-sufficient housing project by putting power back into the grid. The Mayor threw the power switch on one of seven energy self-sufficient homes recently built and actually sent power back to the grid.

    “Last year I announced 10 goals for the City of San Diego,” said Mayor Murphy. “Goal #9 is to pursue energy independence and this type of project can make energy independence a reality.”

    Through the use of state-of-the-art but readily available technologies, Michael Turk of KD Development and Scott Whitley of Sundance Technology are proving that the marketplace is ready for energy conservation and solar energy.

    “The technology for this type of development is here today,” said Michael Turk. “It's safe and reliable. The recycling of our land in the city in already urbanized areas and using sustainable energy will provide for future growth, and a clean environment.”

    The in-fill residential project in Mission Beach features seven homes that exceed the state energy conservation standards by 50 percent. Each home includes 20 photovoltaic solar panels. Each system will produce 3,000 kwh of electricity per year for 30 years. Depending on the number of occupants and their lifestyle, this system can generate 50 - 110% of the electrical power needs of the occupants and electrical bills could be as low as $5 per month. These homes will also be generating power when the demand is highest. All the homes sold in less than six weeks, proving there is a consumer demand for this type of product.

    The combination of the photovoltaic panels and the following conservation features make these homes good for the homeowner and good for the environment:

  • Super-insulated walls and ceilings
  • A 90 percent efficient Hydronic heating and tankless hot water system
  • Double pane, low E glass windows
  • Highly efficient electrical lighting, inside and out.

    “We are pleased that homeowners are buying energy self-sufficient homes,” said Tom Blair, deputy director in the Environmental Services Department and energy administrator for the City of San Diego. “This interest, along with the City's efforts to reduce energy usage, is making strides in achieving the Mayor's goal for energy independence.”

    City's website: www.sandiego.gov