Many Katahdin Cedar Log Home owners know that energy costs are the one moving target that’s important to address when designing your new log home. Fortunately, technology and innovations, as well as some impressive tax credits, can help you lock in your family’s power for the next 20 years or more. The key to off-grid planning is to address three primary factors: energy source; energy storage; and energy backup.
Planning for Power Sources
The most common form of alternative energy is tapping into the sun’s power with solar panels. Costs have dropped dramatically, and equipment surrounding solar power has evolved as well. Plus, there are very attractive federal tax incentives for selecting solar for your primary source of electricity. The benefits from the Inflation Reduction Act can save as much as one-third of total costs for various alternative energy and efficiency upgrades. Another option for alternative energy is a residential windmill, but these can be tricky to maximize in some areas.
Power Storage
Off-grid living relies heavily on battery storage, to cover those times when the sun isn’t shining. The alternative vehicle refueling credit can cover up to $1000 for the cost to include vehicle charging battery systems as well as bi-directional chargers that can direct electricity back into your home system.
Geothermal Heating & Cooling
Geothermal is very attractive for heating and cooling options as it taps into the earth’s energy and provides clean heating and cooling year-round through heat pump technology. Heat pumps require only a small amount of power to run, and when paired with solar and battery backup, can be a reliable way to keep your Katahdin Cedar Log Home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Geothermal is most effectively installed during new construction as it requires excavation to place the system’s continuous loops in the ground to capture geothermal energy.
Energy Back-up
In Maine, we’re always looking ahead to prepare for unexpected emergencies: prolonged storms; cloudy weather; damaged equipment and other unforeseen issues that can alter your power capabilities. Many Mainers have woodstoves, pellet stoves, or biofuel boilers to provide heating alternatives during winter. Gas- or propane-fired generators — both manual and on-demand— are also part of a rural homestead. If you plan on a manual generator for emergencies, make sure it has an electric starter and that your electrician has enabled direct connections between your generator and your power panel. It’s also important to make sure the generator has enough power to keep your home operating essential items: hot water, septic and well pumps, medical equipment, refrigerators, freezers, and lighting.
Energy Efficiency Has a Big Role
Because an off-grid home has a specific quantity of power available based on the systems you’ve installed, it’s essential to minimize energy use and optimize comfort with great insulation and air sealing, as well as high-efficiency appliances and electronics. Katahdin’s Energy Envelope System can ensure your home is well insulated to meet efficiency requirements in your area. Including efficient energy recovery ventilation units in your HVAC plan can capture precious energy while maintaining good indoor air quality.
Pulling these elements together require a willingness to explore power options beyond traditional means. Identify home performance pros, electricians, plumbers and/or solar experts who can prepare an effective plan for your off-grid Katahdin Cedar Log Home.