The Basics of Passive Solar Design: Harnessing the Sun’s Heat

This course is designed to introduce students to the principles of passive solar design, a method for harnessing the natural heat from the sun to warm homes and buildings. By exploring the strategic use of materials, architecture, and placement, participants will learn how to create efficient, eco-friendly spaces that capitalize on the sun's energy.

Course Prerequisites

  • Basic understanding of environmental science
  • Interest in sustainable building practices
  • Willingness to engage in design thinking
  • Basic knowledge of architecture or engineering concepts (beneficial but not mandatory)
  • Enthusiasm for reducing energy consumption

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the fundamentals of passive solar design
  • Learn to assess and utilize the sun’s path for heating purposes
  • Grasp the importance of thermal mass and insulation in passive design
  • Develop the ability to design or retrofit buildings for better solar heat utilization
  • Acquire the skills to calculate and optimize solar gain for various climates

Course Content

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Course Includes

  • 10 Lessons
  • 100 Topics
  • 1 Knowledge Check