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WisconSUN Case Study:
The Bahr Home
- Installation completed: February 2001
- Solar technology: photovoltaic shingles
- Size of PV system: 1.6 kW
- Installed by: Innovative Power Systems and H&H Electric
- Location: Madison, Wisconsin
Jean Bahr has long been interested in photovoltaic (PV) systems, but PV's high price, the need for batteries, and systems that were poorly suited for an urban home dissuaded her. In 2000—with falling prices, net metering (and therefore no need for batteries), an attractive new PV shingle product, and the need for a new roof—it was time to install a PV system.
The UniSolar PV shingles are designed for residential applications, blending in nicely with asphalt shingles. The shingles are made of a flexible amorphous silica material encased in a weatherproof capsule and have a twenty-year warrantee. They are simply nailed to the roof like standard shingles. Every seven feet an electric cable runs through the roof, bringing the electrical current into the home.
Importantly, the home also includes energy efficient technologies such as a setback thermostat, new windows, compact fluorescent lamps and an energy efficient refrigerator. Since 2002, after replacing an inefficient refrigerator, the Bahr home's PV system meets over 100% of the home's electricity needs. Jean Bahr is serious about reducing her impact on the environment; she also drives a hybrid gas-electric car.
Update (August 2002) - for the first eight months of the year, the Bahr home is a net electricity producer. Or in other words this relatively small 1.8 kW PV system has been generating more electricity than the home requires. The home owner was able to greatly reduce her electricity use by installing energy star appliances and being more careful how she uses electricity.
For more information about the system contact WisconSUN or Jean Bahr (phone 608.262.5513). If you are in Madison take a look at the system; it is located at the south end of Monroe St. at 3605 Nakoma Rd.
Photo credits
Niels Wolter, WisconSUN (top photo)
Jean Bahr (bottom photo)
copyright © 2001 WisconSUN
