In Short : A solar-grid connected house in North Texas has opened its doors to the public as part of a national tour. This initiative aims to showcase the potential of solar energy and grid-connected homes. By allowing visitors to explore the solar-powered residence, the tour promotes awareness about renewable energy solutions, energy efficiency, and sustainable living practices. This event serves as an educational platform, inspiring others to adopt eco-friendly technologies and contribute to a more sustainable future.
In Detail : The Byrom House in Irving is part of a 50-state tour designed to showcase the power and potential of solar energy. People can get their questions “answered by knowledgeable neighbors, not salespeople,” says Ella Nielsen of the American Solar Energy Society.
“The National Solar Tour allows prospective individuals to get their questions answered by knowledgeable neighbors, not salespeople. Tours include homes, schools, businesses, churches, and community organizations that have saved money by adopting sustainable and solar systems to help create a cleaner and more sustainable future.” Ella Nielsen, membership and engagement director at ASES, said in a statement.
The Byrom House is one block south of State Highway 183 on MacArthur Boulevard.
The tour is designed for attendees to learn more about the benefits and how sustainable technologies work. The North Texas tour weekend is Oct. 6-8 in-person and virtual tours are happening throughout the year.
The Byrom House is a 14.4 kW DC solar grid-connected house that can operate independently of the grid using a large LiFePO4 Energy Storage System battery.
It has a geothermal ground source heat pump HVAC system that provides hot water. A rainwater collection system provides irrigation water for the landscaping, using native and drought-resistant plants, ASES said.
The house features ventilated roof and wall systems, structural foam-insulated sheathing panels, a standing seam metal cool roof, and a post-tensioned slab installed on chemically treated soil due to the local soil properties.
ASES encourages people who want to attend the tour to RSVP, which not only secures a spot but also helps organizers plan for the number of participants.