Question. We are considering renovating a home in the area that we recently purchased, can we make this older home like your new Hybrid Home?

Answer. Yes, many of the systems, such as solar PV panels and geothermal heat pumps, can be retrofitted to existing homes. The windows and doors can be replaced with the latest hi-performance windows and doors. Older energy inefficient incandescent lighting can be upgraded to newer energy saving compact fluorescent and LED lighting. Additional insulation and sealants can be used to reduce drafts in the home. The result is a home that will have significantly less monthly utility bills, as well as being more comfortable to live in.

Question. Are there financial incentives for installing Solar PV panels on a commercial building, for example a horse or cattle operation?

Answer. Solar PV panels qualify for a 30% Federal Tax Credit when installed for both residential and commercial applications. Commercial customers who purchase grid-tied PV systems are also entitled to an additional financial incentive: depreciation. Depreciation is a mechanism for spreading out the cost of acquiring large capital items over time. Solar projects, even though they have a 25-year service life, qualify for 5-year accelerated depreciation. Systems placed in service in 2008 and 2009 also qualify for bonus depreciation. These PV systems are still depreciated over 5-years, but they can take 50% in the first year, and 12.5% in the next 4-years. Something for someone who has an agricultural or other commercial business may wish to consider.

Question. Will we have to give up anything in terms of style or comfort to build green?

Answer. You not need give up anything from a style perspective to build green. Your hybrid home will actually be more comfortable. It will less drafty due to better insulating and hi-performance windows and doors. With hydronic radiant floor heating your home with be quieter, without the blowing of allergen-filled air associated with conventional forced air heating systems. Equally importantly, you will be significantly reducing your monthly energy bill. You can save money while helping to save the planet.

Question. Do you only build large custom homes?

Answer. No. I am a disciple of "The Not So Big House" movement where the emphasis is quality and detailing, and not size. Smaller, exquisitely designed homes lessen our footprint our not so big planet. We are currently offering for sale in the area a smaller bungalow-style home priced at $599,000.