Archive for August, 2013
Toronto Promotes Eco-Roof Program
Many urban areas are growing in their eco-friendly and resource conservation efforts. As the green roofing industry continues to flourish, cities like Toronto are offering big incentives for anyone interested in making buildings more environmentally friendly.
Green For Green
Toronto’s Eco-Roof Incentive Program promotes the installation of cool roofs on buildings around the city. Offering grants to eligible applicants for installing green or cool roof products on existing buildings, many of Toronto’s residents are jumping at the chance to be more environmentally conscious. There are two types of grants available:
Green roof grants — of $75 per square meter, with a maximum of $100,000.
Cool roof grants — of $2 per square meter, with a maximum of $50,000
The City of Toronto launched this program in 2009 and has helped many commercial and residential buildings transform an old roof into an energy efficient system that gives back to the community. Both types of eco-roofs can help lower energy consumption, reduce heating and cooling needs and improve local air quality.
From September 19-21, residents can learn more about eco-roofs at the city’s Green roof Boot Camp. For more information, case studies, and to apply online, visit: www.toronto.ca/livegreen/ecoroofs.
The Future of Solar Panels
You may be thinking that solar panel roof products are a thing of the future. With their seemingly technologically advanced processes and appearance, many people find the idea of solar power to be just on the cusp of the future. However, recent advancements in solar technology are set to push this already futuristic idea farther into the realm of awesome.
Innovative Ideas
Fraunhofer USA’s Center for Sustainable Energy Systems is a company that offers a wide range of technological services. In short, they are invention improvers. They take ideas from all aspects of technology and make them better, more efficient and more user friendly. From MP3 players to biofuel cells, this company has hands in many projects.Their mission in roofing? Smart solar panels.
They are currently working with the Department of Energy towards the creation of a Plug-and-Play solar panel system. This photovoltaic solar power system is designed for the average homeowner, making it simple and easy for even the most novice to install. Similar to a peel and stick system already used for commercial buildings, this new solar panel system will make installing and managing an alternative energy source easy for anyone interested in utilizing green roof materials. Although development is still in its early stages, the force driving this idea is sure to develop a quality product that most homes can afford.
