May 9 – Solar Design Associates has begun construction on a solar thermal system for the second phase of Saint Polycarp Village in Somerville. Developed by the Somerville Community Corporation (SCC), the village is a mixed-use project that provides green space, street-level retail space, and affordable rental apartments.
Prior to building completion, Solar Design Associates worked with Davis Square Architects and their project team to integrate the structure, piping, and hot water storage required for solar thermal. In 2010, SDA designed and installed a 50kW PV array and a solar thermal system to offset the common area electricity use, domestic hot water use, and space heating loads in the first of three buildings that will comprise Saint Polycarp Village. The third building, which recently broke ground, will also be powered with renewable energy.
In addition to onsite energy generation, Saint Polycarp Village incorporates highly efficient appliances, heating and cooling systems, and building envelope. The project has obtained the LEED-NC Silver certification.
