Jun 4 2008
Solaris Home Systems, a provider of green home automation and remodeling services, is pleased to announce their most recent achievement - dual LEED Gold certifications from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for their Lucia and Aura model homes. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED for Homes) is a rating system that recognizes and promotes the design and construction of high-performance green homes.
Designed by Affiniti Architects and built by Cribb Construction, the Aura and Lucia models are high-tech, energy-efficient solar homes that incorporate renewable energy technologies, ENERGY STAR(R) appliances and a built-in energy management computer system.
"Our team set out initially to build as environmentally-friendly a home as possible, meanwhile setting a new standard in energy-efficiency and awareness," said Tom Pirelli, Chairman of Solaris Home Systems. "Since these are the first homes we've entered for LEED certification, our design team is pleased to have achieved the LEED Gold level twice."
These homes are so energy-efficient that Florida Power and Light's BuildSmart Program Channel Manager Terry Yeager commented, "If I had a wish list for builders to follow in terms of energy efficient designs, I would model it after Solaris Home Systems' Lucia and Aura Models."
LEED Gold certification was awarded due to stellar "green" design and construction features such as:
- "EMA" - a built-in energy management computer
- Sharp Photovoltaic Panels and Solar Water Heater
- Hot water circulation pump activated by motion detectors
- E-Wall system-thick concrete walls with insulation for the exterior walls
- Vantage lighting system couples energy-efficient bulbs with room occupancy sensors
- ENERGY STAR Appliances
- Bamboo, Cork and Natural Fiber flooring
Eric Martin, a Senior Research Engineer for Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) and certified LEED reviewer conducted a thorough performance and design test of both homes.