COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Well developed in passive heating but less developed in passive cooling.
Wing walls are being researched as a ventilation strategy at the Florida Solar Energy Center, and effectiveness is being documented.
A thermal chimney is a common design element in passive solar designs. Thermal chimneys are based on basic thermodynamics commonly used in passive design.
SUPPLIERS:
This is a design-based approach to energy and is practiced by some designers and architects in Austin.
COST:
The cost of passive design elements can run the same or slightly more than conventional building costs. This assumes that design services are used in both approaches – passive solar design and conventional design. Interior thermal mass materials such as stone and brick generally add to the cost of a home but can also be considered aesthetic enhancements.