Located in the centre of the Sunshine Coast, near airport.
Construction of this beach house is from materials of low thermal mass, mainly hardwood and fibro. The house achieves its comfortable living conditions through its open design, the use of shading by verandahs, a large cool air space under the house, and good airflow through the house, utilising the sea breezes.
The house has been retrofitted with a stand-alone solar power system, and is no longer connected to the grid. Also solar hot water, rain water tank and grey water filter system have been installed. Active demonstrations of the Solar Venti dehumidifier and air heater, and a solar powered mower are also present.
The house would be of particular interest to those wishing to investigate using independent solar power to run a normal house, and to those wishing to minimise their energy footprint.
The house has an organic vegetable garden, composting, and the original grassed areas of the block are actually being replanted with mainly local trees and shrubs, native to the area.
The house is occupied full time by two adults, with visitors staying from time to time. Both of the occupants have lived with this solar system for a number of years, and are able to explain the practical benefits and drawbacks of everyday living with the system.
(August 2009) (
