Approaching Net-Zero with Geothermal & Solar

by | Dec 30, 2014 | Geothermal~res, Green Building~res, Projects~res, TECA Certified | 0 comments

The homeowners were committed to building an efficient and comfortable home to enjoy their retirement in. Combining Renewable Energy technologies with smart building techniques has really paid off. The energy rater from City Green Solutions was so impressed with the home’s performance that it earned an EnerGuide 93Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) developed the EnerGuide Rating System to show a standard measure of your home's energy performance. The home's energy efficiency level is rated on a scale of 0 to 100, where a higher rating indicates a more energy efficient home. A home with an EnerGuide rating of 100 requires no purchased energy on an annual basis, is airtight, well insulated, and sufficiently ventilated. rating-their highest rated so far! This home also qualified for two Regional District of Nanaimo green building incentives as well as a BC Hydro EnerGuide rebate.

THE FULL PACKAGE

This GeoExchange system features a Canadian made Nordic W-Series water to water heat pump supplied by a horizontal ground loop. The system controller is smart, so it adjusts the floor delivery temperature based on the changing weather conditions outside. This allows the heat pump to run at maximum efficiency throughout the year which saves even more money.
Geothermal Heat Pump

In addition to heating the house, the GeoExchangeAlso known as Geothermal system also produces preheated domestic hot water for washing and showers. We used an innovative stainless steel buffer tank that performs multiple functions in a compact footprint.


GEO + SOLAR + RADIANT

Perched high up in the Qualicum River Estates, this home enjoys panoramic views of the Salish Sea and the Sunshine Coast. With a natural forested backdrop, the clients chose the quiet comfort of GeoExchangeAlso known as Geothermal & Radiant Infloor heating to complement their peaceful surroundings. The house is also producing electricity on-site thanks to the twin arrays of photovoltaic panels installed by Terratek.
Geothermal Vancouver Island

Combining multiple renewable energy technologies has achieved incredible results – the Earth and the Sun are heating and powering this home as it approaches Net-Zero energy.

A blower door test confirmed the advanced doors and comprehensive air sealing have achieved a very tight building envelope (65% less air leakage than a typical house). To ensure high indoor air quality, a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) provides controlled fresh air, while recovering heat from the outgoing air.

RADIANT INFLOOR HEATING

The home was divided into 3 thermal zones for the infloor heating.  We used premium Caleffi brass manifolds with integrated flow meters for complete control of the 12 separate floor loops. An ECM circulator uses only 30 watts to move heated water throughout the house.


 

GEOTHERMAL HEAT PUMP SYSTEM

Stage 3 Renewables’ craftsmanship is evident throughout the well organized mechanical room. Quality components and experienced design create an efficient system that will last for generations. Smart planning allows a backup generator to run the system during power outages.


 

GEO LOOP INSTALLATION

A challenging site required good planning to maximize performance. Properly spaced horizontal trenches are excavated before placing custom coils of Geo tubing. The loops are filled with Loopanol antifreeze, which is a non-toxic renewably sourced ethanol from Canada.


The house scored a 93, which is the highest that City Green Solutions have ever seen. We’re really pleased, and I imagine you guys will be too.Homeowner

During the multiple phases of construction, Stage 3 Renewables worked closely with the clients and their builder to keep the building schedule moving ahead. This was a great project, and it was a pleasure to work with clients who were truly invested in quality and performance.

How can we help you with your next project?

Let’s Get Started Geothermal Heat Pump – Ground Source Heat Pump, Lowe

What We Do

Stage 3 Renewables is an innovative renewable energy company with an excellent reputation.

Our services include:

  • Design and installation of heating and cooling systems
  • Energy modelling and pre-feasibility studies
  • Engineering design and documentation
  • Troubleshooting and repair of mechanical systems - we're the best!
  • New construction and conversions to Renewables
We provide design and installation services for Residential and Commercial clients. We retrofit energy efficient systems and we interface with boilers and heat pump systems. We know how to save energy, lower heating bills, improve reliability and increase comfort. If you want the best performance and value, give us a call first.

Where We Work

Stage 3 Renewables is a British Columbia renewable energy company. We work throughout Coastal BC in places like,
Greater Vancouver: Richmond, Burnaby, Delta, Surrey, Ladner, North Vancouver, White Rock, West Vancouver
The Fraser Valley: Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Hope, Mission,
North Fraser River: New Westminster, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Mission
Sunshine Coast: Gibsons, Sechelt, Roberts Creek, Powell River
Vancouver Island: Victoria, Sooke, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox
Gulf Islands: Salt Spring Island, Galiano, Mayne, Quadra
We bring Renewable Energy solutions to you! Call us today about your project.