GKKUNZ

I'm a former mechanical engineering student (only made it part way through), who's had an interest in solar energy since the late 70's. My interest lay relatively dormant for a number of years, but has been rekindled in recent years, particularly as photovoltaic and wind power have become much more mainstream. I've had an interest in earth-sheltered and envelope construction concepts for some time. I was fascinated when I recently became aware of straw bale construction. I've become intrigued by the notion of integrating these home design/construction designs and techniques with off-grid energy systems (i.e., geothermal heating, photovoltaic panels, solar water heating, wind generators, and woodburning). Of course, sustainability and otherwise minimizing ecological impact are important considerations, not to mention the attraction of independence.