Passive Solar Greenhouse

Just thought I’d pass this along to the Master Composters. I missed the last solar greenhouse presentation.

The Solar Energy Society of Alberta has embarked on a design Charette on solar greenhouses. Members have gone to China to visit their greenhouses and are currently working with the Alberta and Sask governments and others. The China solar greenhouse generally consist of double poly on the south exterior and a brick wall on the north exterior. They are simple, inexpensive and easy to build.

- Brian

image of passive Solar collection from I Dream of Architecture

Thanks Brian. I have known for many years of the benefits of passive solar (my composter in a sunny, sheltered spot works year-round), but after seeing The Ways at City Hall I have been considering adding a greenhouse to an unused portion of my yard south of the garage.
I have been considering a row of dark-coloured rain barrels along the north wall to retain heat - do you think this would work as well as masonry and earth?

Here is information from Brian about the next Solar Energy Society meeting. It is in two weeks; plan to be there early and save me a seat!

T’Sou-ke First Nation
The Most Solar-Intensive Community in Canada
Chief Gordon Planes Andrew Moore – Project Director
Wednesday March 23, 7:00pm MacEwan University CN Theatre Rm 5-142

Following a year-long visioning process the T’Sou-ke community embarked on a programme to achieve energy autonomy, economic self-sufficiency and food sustainability while utilizing the ancient wisdom and skills still available within First Nations communities. Their on-going achievements include three solar electric systems totaling 75kW, thirty eight residential solar hot water systems, and an ambitious energy efficiency programme along with indigenous plant propagation and food-producing greenhouses. In the process of building these many projects the T’Sou-ke First Nation has trained many young people in the solar and sustainability trades and inspired many other communities to follow their lead.

Free, no reservations necessary. Seating is first come, first served. Free refreshments
Further info: go to: www.solaralberta.ca (click on Seminars)