IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
There is not a financing issue unless the house does not include mechanical cooling. Lenders feel that the resale value of a home is reduced if mechanical cooling is not present.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
There is a basic understanding and acceptance in regards to passive heating among a large number of persons who have relocated here from colder regions. Passive cooling approaches are not well known.
REGULATORY:
According to the Energy Code, there are limitations on the amount of glass a building can have (25% if double-pane). It is normally not necessary to exceed that amount in order to achieve significant passive solar energy in Austin. However, this amount can be exceeded if an approved computer analysis shows that more glass will improve the energy use pattern in the building.