NO FURNACE: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PASSIVE SOLAR HOMES IN MICHIGAN’S UPPER PENINSULA

摘要

“Society is living beyond its means. We are about to dispossess the earth of capital assets in the space of a few lifetimes through patterns of exploitation. These patterns are devastating the natural environment upon which we depend for our long-term survival.” – Architects for Social Responsibility. Copper Country Habitat for Humanity is making international news with design and construction of award-winning energy efficient homes in the Keweenaw Peninsula, the finger of land in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula jutting into the frigid waters of Lake Superior. Since 1995, fourteen energy efficient homes have been built with partners such as the Michigan Technological University Campus Chapter of Habitat and the Lions Clubs International Foundation. The affiliate is becoming a model of passive solar, super-insulated design and construction strategy for high latitude. It is conducting seminars, workshops, and home tours; educating via video; being published worldwide; and partnering with more families in the Keweenaw community each year building new and renovated energy efficient homes. Thoughtful design strategy and sensitivity to construction details produce affordable, effective, passive solar houses. A primary goal is building with common materials and practical design introducing the general public to principles of energy-conscious design strategies and sustainable construction techniques that make houses environmentally responsible and economical to maintain. This paper describes the design, construction, and performance of three Habitat houses, one of which won a year 2000 Five Star Home Grant from the State of Michigan for energy efficient design.