Utility Costs

Between $141 and $266 for lowest to highest states per month for gas and electric. See nice map at [1]

This means that in the design of the Seed Eco-Home, we put in the extra effort to make electrical costs less over lifetime. We can also strive to make those costs 0 up front via energy loans.

Basics of high PV profile - use 20kW.

Invest in concrete pipe (it leaks [2]) for water storage when sealed and insulated.

Transcending the System - Calculations

• 20kW PV - raw cost of $7k, down to $5.8k in bulk.
• Water from 59F to 110F (15 to 44) - 30C rise. For 250 gallons.
• Industry standards - 80 gal heater - 21 gal recovery rate per hour with 9kW. [3]
• Max gallons recovered with 18 kW electric - 42 gal/hr - or 250 gallons per day.
• Perhaps the large 80 gal heater is the way to go as a basic, off-the-shelf unit running on solar. Keep it on only during the hottest sun time.