Above: 1 kW SunTech photovoltaic collector system. This feeds into the grid, earning about 4 X the consumer tariff per kW.Hr.
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GOD'S BACKYARD
The environment means more to people now than ever. As part of our ministry to God, we have always sought to make some effort to help reduce the footprint taken on the planet.
Simple devices such as solar hot water, 1 kW solar electrical generation and 9,000 litres of potable tank water are some of the most obvious means we have done this. Naturally the home is insulated and draft-proofed, and we have some interesting double-glazing to show you!
Also we have reduced our lawn size to 100 square metres and used Sir Walter Grass, a special hybrid buffalo grass, that is low maintenance, low water use, and a beautiful lush green in summer, when you want the lawn. The rest is a mulched orchard, vegetable patch and "native" corner.
Growing our vegetables helps too. We also prefer native plants in our garden (though not exclusively), as they are more drought resistant.
Irrigation is by dripper lines attached to a computer controlled scheduling system, so we can water on the "odds and evens" system that Canberra requires. Mind you, we can do what we like with our own tank water!
This water comes from 100 square metres of roof, and the tank and system is filtered and lined to drinking standard. It is plumbed into the domestic system in a switchable device that is either manual, or automatic, all at mains pressure. Lately we have been almost exclusively on tank water - perhaps for the past 3 months. The tank is still full due to spring rains.
We are happy to brag about the goods we have purchased, and the details are below and on the side bar.
Please look at these people's websites, as this website is sponsored a little if you click there, like what you find, and buy.
(Links coming soon)
