By Brenna Angel
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-897781.mp3
LEXINGTON, Ky. -- – The impressive run of the University of Kentucky solar house, or s.ky blue as its called, is not over yet. After placing ninth out of 20 international entries at the U.S. Department of Energy's Solar Decathlon last year, the house is now open for tours on the UK campus.
There professors Don Colliver and Greg Luhan explain the inner workings of the net zero home and how the public can incorporate some of the concepts into their own homes.
Dr. Colliver says energy efficiency starts with the basic structure of the building, especially the windows and doors. Luhan adds that homeowners should also take into consideration how they will most often use their space. The inside of the solar house is only 540 square feet, but students and faculty were able to include a bedroom, bathroom, office space, full sized washer and dryer, kitchen, and a combined living and dining room.
The professors admit that most people who tour the solar house won't be able to incorporate all aspects of the estimated $500,000 project into their own homes. But they hope it will show people that using solar technology is possible in Kentucky, and that being environmentally friendly doesn't have to mean sacrificing style or comfort.
The solar house will head to the Kentucky Horse Park in early August to serve as the welcome center for the World Equestrian Games. Students and faculty will also continue to use the house for future research projects.