Net Metering

Last week, the PV system has been inspected and put into service by LADWP. The PV’s have their own meter, indicating the amount of energy in kWh generated, while the city meter next to it shows the net-energy- i.e. the amount of energy used minus the amount of energy generated by the system. This net metering concept does not encourage users to maximize their solar potential and to produce more power than they need and in the end effectively still requires some power to be drawn from the grid- in contrast to other regions of the US and some countries in Europe, where the utilities want people to maximize their solar power generation in order reduce the need to build new power plants.
The good thing about the two meters is that we always see how much we are generating and how much we are actually using, so we are able to adjust our demand to maximize the effect of the PV array- Currently we are producing more than we need, thus the weird number on the net-meter. However, once the heat of the summer starts and we will be forced to use A/C. this might change.
The photo shows a 98 kWh generated and a net reading of 99992 kWh- so we have 8 kWh in reserve already- and counting…

Nob Hill Haus- Open to the Public

We're in (and enjoyed that gorgeous sunrise we had last week from our bedroom!). Now, that you've seen and read all about the Nob Hill Haus on this blog there's only one thing that's missing- to see the real thing. And that chance is coming! On April 30, the US Green Building Council's Los Angeles Chapter will feature the Nob Hill Haus as one of the main attractions of the Los Angeles area Green Home Tour: Here's the description:

"Join USGBC-LA San Gabriel Valley branch for a self-guided tour of six sustainable homes throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Locations include Pasadena, South Pasadena, Atwater Village, La Verne and Mount Washington. The Tour will feature single family homes, a condominium project, a single family home development and sustainable gardens that will showcase the latest in residential sustainable technology. The first ever permitted gray water system in Los Angeles, a rainwater harvesting system and a solar water heater will be on view. Additional sustainable features on the tour include: photo voltaic systems, permeable paving, a rain barrel, Energy Star rated appliances, bamboo flooring, natural cooling and ventilation, high performance glazing and a kitchen recycling center. The sustainable gardens include native and drought tolerant plants, drip irrigation, a composting center and a vertical infinity fountain. All registrants will receive their ticket and tour booklet at registration at the first house. Directions and descriptions of each of the locations will be included in the booklet. There is plenty of street parking available at the first house."

and the link to the website: http://www.usgbc-la.org/

Hope to see you at the Haus!