Building orientation refers to the way a building is situated on a site and the positioning of
windows, rooflines, and other features. A building oriented for solar design takes advantage of
passive and active solar strategies. Passive solar strategies use energy from the sun to heat and
illuminate buildings. Building orientation and building materials also facilitate temperature
moderation and natural daylighting. Active solar systems use solar collectors and additional
electricity to power pumps or fans to distribute the sun's energy. Heat is absorbed and transferred
to another location for immediate heating or for storage for use later. Water, antifreeze or
sometimes air circulates to transfer heat.1 Unlike active solar strategies, a passive design does not
involve the use of mechanical and electrical devices, such as pumps, fans, or electrical controls.