i have had the idea of the solar cabin on my mind about three years now. the idea has evolved over time, and lately has been very high on my priorities. that still doesn't mean it'll ever get done.

at this point, i have a few more blanks to fill in but i think my body of knowledge has come far enough for me to actually take on this project. it's a mix of low and high tech materials, active and passive systems, with a few question marks on my best bets for backup power and plumbing. also have to find the right appliances for the power and space available.

First thing that comes to mind as far as appliances are those built for an RV. I know the fridge can be powered by electric or gas. They're not really all that large, but you did say space. Same with the stove and oven.

Led lights are expensive now, but IF you could work them into the mix it would save you a ton in power used to light them up. Plus as you well know they last a long long time. Perhaps you could go a combo of solar and water power some way depending upon where you were to build it. You could also consider Wind power generation.

OR just find some land what has a nice size cave on it and concrete up the entryway and your structure would already be up. PLUS that would help tremendously in the heating/cooling aspect.

i have considered wind, also. it's still on the option list. frankly i'd rather put that on my current house.

If we could harness the energy our Granddaughter has expended this past week we could probably power our house for the next 15 years or so! Man does that kid have some go power. Makes the Energizer bunny look like a snail!

that cave would already have to face south with exposure from 9am to 3pm.

earth is part of the design, though. the northern side of the structure is insulated with a wall of earthbags.

by the way, my sister had a baby boy two days ago. i'll start a thread on that.

I saw and read years ago about folks stacking up tires and pounding them full of dirt for outside walls. I guess it would work but man, can you imagine pounding that many tires full of dirt like that with a sledge hammer!

Congratulations on the nephew Mags!

well, the sun's comin out. that was so much easier than the blizzards we always get up here. i understand that we didn't get nearly as bad a beating as some others, but i am glad i don't have to bundle up and shovel all day. some friends lost power and a few trees fell, as expected.

i left a small towel hanging in the backyard. it's still there.

I'm glad that you were so lucky; a lot of folks were NOT so lucky! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />