Desert Orientation: Page 4 of 4

But the Houchens’ story does not end there. In addition to plans to wean themselves from propane water heating to electric tankless water heaters, Tom and Robbin may join the area’s rapidly growing community of solar farmers. A commercial solar company approached the couple about leasing the lower half of their property for a solar farm that would be home to megawatts of PV generating capacity. “It’s nice to be able to generate our own electricity,” Robbin says, “but it would be wonderful to make an even larger contribution.” 

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Home Power associate editor Kelly Davidson recently moved to Takoma Park, Maryland—a nuclear-free community since 1983. She and her fiancé are still saving all their pennies to buy land and realize their green dream—a solar-powered, super-insulated, barn-style home made from reclaimed and recycled materials. 

Sharpe Solar Energy Inc. • www.sharpesolar.com • PV installation

PV & Wind Systems Components:

Bergey • www.bergey.com • Wind generator

BP Solar • www.bpsolar.com • PV modules

Xantrex • www.xantrex.com • Inverters