A methodology for the design of sustainable off-grid housing

The use of on-site resources, including sun, wind, precipitation, and building materials, has long been emphasized in the efforts to reduce the use of non-renewable energy resources and energy intensive building methods and materials. Such considerations are gaining further importance in light of the growing realization of the serious environmental problems facing world communities and the resulting increasing sense of environmental responsibility. In this context, this paper discusses how both climatic conditions and specific characteristics of a site can significantly contribute to the goal of unplugging our dependency on conventional non-sustainable energy sources and supporting a healthier sustainable practice. The paper presents a methodology for the design of sustainable off-grid housing which aims to synthesize the qualitative aspects of housing design with the quantitative and performance-related considerations that need to be addressed in order to achieve these goals. This methodology involves a bio-climatic approach to design targeting reductions in loads, response to solar geometry, incorporation of passive heating and cooling systems, use of on-site water harvesting, use of photovoltaic technology for electricity production, and, when needed, integration of high efficiency auxiliary mechanical systems. This aims to demonstrate how the accumulative affect of the inclusions of these benevolent technologies can lead to sustainable off-grid housing. The paper focuses on off-grid housing as a means of demonstrating through design the necessary impact required by these systems so that an understanding of the extremes required from completely unplugging from conventional sources and systems may be illustrated. Demonstrating this more radical architectural response to accomplish off-grid housing will enable a better understanding for applying these principles and systems to larger developments, increased densities and differing housing typologies. Copyright © 2007 IAHS.