From Cost Savings to Environmental Benefits: Everything You Need to Know About Installing Solar Panels

When it comes to solar energy systems, one of the most important decisions you will have to make is whether to use an off-grid, grid-tie, or hybrid solar inverter. Each system has its advantages and benefits, as well as its strengths and weaknesses. This article will explore the differences between off-grid, grid-tie, and hybrid solar inverters and help you decide which system is right for you.

Solar energy systems have become increasingly popular as people look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and lower energy costs. One of the most critical components of a solar energy system is the inverter, which converts the direct current (DC) power generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) power to power your home or business.

How to determine the solar power system that will fit your need?

Determining the size of your solar power system is an essential step in ensuring that your system meets your energy needs and provides maximum savings. Here are the steps to determine the size of your solar power system:

1. Determine your energy usage.

The first step in determining the size of your solar power system is to assess your energy usage. You can review your electricity bills to see how much energy you use every month.

2. Calculate your roof space.

The next step is determining how much roof space you have for solar panels. The roof measurements will help you determine how many panels you can fit on your roof and how much energy they can generate.

Permeable Concrete a Solution to Flooding Problems in our Cities.

The rainy season is about to start, and with it comes flooding. Flooding is a significant problem in a lot of cities in the Philippines. Trash accumulation in the drainage system is one of the root causes of flooding. 

Another cause for flooding is the growing number of impervious layers in most cities. Most of the ground in developed areas is impervious materials. Runoff increases as we develop more areas of our environment. Lesser water infiltrates the soil.

Amazing Vertical Gardens Designed by Patrick Blanc

Going green has inspired me a lot lately and made me rethink my approach to architecture. I have seen many stunning eco-friendly designs that convinced me that going green is the next step in an efficient, sustainable, and exceptional modern building.

One building with plant-covered walls caught my attention. Patrick Blanc, a botanist, designed and invented the new concept of vertical gardens.

I appreciate how his design enhances the environment and admire his pioneering approach to integrating plants into building structures. His works have become the focal point of the building. Aside from their aesthetic appeal, the vertical gardens have a functional purpose that is beneficial to the users and their surrounding environment.

The vertical gardens help lessen air and noise pollution and reduce heat gain and radiation by creating natural insulation for the building. The vertical gardens also protect the walls from deterioration and vandalizing.

Covering walls with plants is not something new. What made Patrick Blanc's design unique is how he created art using plants as a material. I hope I can apply this technique as a centerpiece to a building in my future projects.

image source:https://www.verticalgardenpatrickblanc.com/

Green Architecture the Next Generation of Building Design

After watching the inconvenient truth on HBO, I realized how fragile our environment was. The decisions we are making right now have a significant impact on the future of our environment. As an architect, I promised myself that I would use my profession to do part and be part of the solution. A show from the National Geographic Channel, which featured environmentally friendly buildings, inspired me to incorporate green design into my projects.