Habitat Architecture Joins US Green Building Council

Mineapolis, MN, June 06, 2010 --(PR.com)-- For the past decade Habitat Architecture has been advocating Green Building principles and practices as a means of leading the public and its clients towards a more sustainable and energy efficient building method to reduce the impact of built environment on the eco system. The principal architect and founder Hamid Kashani –AIA recently has joined the US Green Building Council’s Green Home Guide program; “Ask the pro.” This provides expert advice to the public increasingly interested in sustainable design and green building techniques and concerns.

Responding to one of the inquiries regarding installation of Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels by a handyman homeowner Hamid wrote: “Simply put, installing a PV solar system consists of two main tasks. One is the physical installation of the panels most commonly on the roof. The other aspect of the project requires the expertise and services of a registered electrician. However in both cases nothing replaces the importance of experience and proper training. Recently I read a report regarding a roof fire due to incorrect installation of PV system and lack of the proper shut off system for the firefighters to disconnect the electrical currents! In addition, to optimize the performance of the solar PV system, one really needs to rely on the professional expertise of a PV installer. Considerations include proper solar orientation and angle, properly securing of the panels to the roof substrate and waterproofing as well as electrical connections and installation of panels and the inverter and shot-off system. Ideally you would want to work with a professional with “NABCEP” certification. In most cases it is most efficient to hire a company to provide and install the system. That way they take care of any warranty issues as well as service and care that may go in to that.”

Through such expertise and dedication towards public awareness and education, Habitat Architecture is at the forefront of sustainable design and green building practices, leading the way towards zero-net energy homes design and construction.

Habitat Architecture is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. To find out more, please visit www.habitatarchitecture.com

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