There is a lot of talk about alternative energy, but people in Arvada, Colorado, USA will soon be walking the talk if they live in the new GEOS community. They will be able to live in houses which do not use any fossil fuels at all. These houses will use a variety of geosolar technologies to achieve their independence.
Solar energy, super insulation, high thermal mass and mobile window insulation, efficient heat recovery ventilation systems and underground geothermal exchanges are some examples. The ground source heat pump heats water as well as serves as a back up heat source. Excess power generation is delivered to the grid and returned when the weather turns cold.
GEOS will be a carbon neutral community of 250 houses complete with a network of plazas, parks and trails. Some of the other innovative approaches include smart water use and clever water saving landscaping. Infrastructure construction is to begin late this year with the first homes being built early in 2009. The homes are to be ready for moving in by the second quarter of next year.
Fossil Fuel-Free Communities
GEOS in Colorado
Trend Themes
1. Carbon Neutral Communities - The trend of building communities that leave no carbon footprint is gaining momentum. This presents an opportunity for companies to invest in renewable energy and green building materials.
2. Geosolar Technologies - There is a growing trend towards using geosolar technologies to power homes and buildings. This presents an opportunity for companies to invest in the development and implementation of these technologies.
3. Smart Water Use - The trend towards smart water use is becoming more important in communities. This presents an opportunity for companies to invest in innovative water saving and conservation technologies.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - The move towards fossil fuel-free communities creates opportunities for companies in the renewable energy industry to develop and market their products and services.
2. Green Building Materials - There is a growing demand for building materials that have a low environmental impact. This presents an opportunity for companies in the green building materials industry to innovate and differentiate their products.
3. Water Management and Conservation - As communities move towards smart water use, there is an opportunity for companies in the water management and conservation industry to innovate and provide cost-effective solutions.