The Sustainable House

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When the Lytles remodeled The Sustainable House, it became the highest-rated residence by the U.S. Green Building Council (LEED), Minnesota GreenStar, and Energy Star Homes. This 1948 house in Minnetonka, Minnesota, has many energy efficiency features, including four-foot overhangs, state-of-the-art mechanicals, and renewable energy. Edible and decorative gardens are watered with thousands of gallons of rainwater stored in underground tanks.

System Components

500W grid-interactive solar PV system with recycled modules
64-square-foot solar hot water system with panels manufactured in Starbuck, MN
Ground-source heat pump and Honda Combined Heat and Power (grid-interactive) furnace.

Additional Measures

Many conservation measures on the house and grounds
Thermal mass
Highly insulated walls and window wells
Triple-glazed, argon-filled, low-e windows
Winter-reflection patio pavers throwing sun into glass doors
Natural lighting
Unique cross-ventilation systems
Permaculture, xeriscape landscaping
Any excess power required is provided by wind farm energy

System Designer: Best Power International
System Engineer: Best Power International
System Installer: Best Power International

Date of Installation Completion: January 2008

System Cost, Payback, and Financial Incentives Utilized

Solar hot water payback is approximately 15 years; solar PV payback is more than 30 years