For Tomorrows Luxury HomesSustainable Solutions
RENEWABLE ENERGY
With the goal of adapting to changing climate patterns and the warming of the earth’s temperature, renewable energy technologies offer homeowners resources for sustainable alternatives for cost-effective energy supplies.
For nearly forty years, Goldberg General Contracting has focused its skills on building at the leading edge of construction. Facing the changes in climate patterns, the firm will remain an advocate, and resource, for our clients. Using the latest means and methods at the forefront of technology GGC will continue to adapt its methodologies for a changing environment.
SOLAR POWER
Collection
Typically, a well-designed residential solar system can provide enough energy to power more than 70 percent of household energy needs. There are two primary types of solar systems, hydronic (hot water), and photovoltaic (electric). How a system is designed will determine the level of its energy efficiency. These variables include the quantity, or array, of the solar panels installed; the amount in hours of direct sun exposure on the array; the energy use demands of the household; and the efficiency of energy conversion of the selected panels installed.
Distribution
Surplus solar energy can also be stored for future consumption. Stored solar energy located in battery backup units can be used for powering nighttime household demands, and overnight charging of electric or hybrid vehicles. Surplus energy can also be sent back onto the electrical grid using Net-Metering. Whereby excess energy is sent back to the local utility, and credits are given to the owner for future power supply needs at discounted rates.
GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM
Highly Efficient
Geothermal is a highly efficient system that does not require the burning of hydrocarbons, but rather it moves and stores heat from one point to another. It can deliver higher quantities of energy efficiently resulting in significant energy savings compared to a traditional heating and cooling systems. On average, depending on the demands on a system, most homes will save between 30 to 60 percent on heating and cooling costs.
Carbon Neutral
Emissions-free, carbon neutral, and energy-efficient are just a few of the positive attributes of a geothermal system. Geothermal heating and cooling systems can offer long-term energy savings and great reliability, but it requires a good site location and higher costs for installation. With a ten-year return on investment it is a cost-effective alternative for long-term energy savings and an impactful reduction in carbon emissions.
Components
Geothermal systems are made up of primarily three components: a heat exchanger, or a closed-loop piping return system; a heat pump that circulates a liquid glycol solution as a medium to transfer heat; and a forced air system to transfer heated or cooled ventilation throughout a series of ductwork. In winter, heat stored below ground is transferred back to the surface using a heat pump. In summer, the process is reversed and the heat from the home is transferred below ground and stored for later use. Using the earth as a heat source in winter and a heat sink in summer is made possible by digging wells and running continuous loop pipes 450 feet below grade where temperatures stay constant.
Bluff & Ravine Site Development
Ravine Development
All the project locations we build upon require infrastructure improvements. However, shoreline properties are a particular challenge, as they rest upon sandy soil that is often in need of stabilization and restructuring. Sand has natural characteristics that can cause shifting, and water runoff only furthers those conditions. As a result, sand laden soil needs to be tested, as it may not provide sufficient load bearing for new foundations and structures.
Bluff Development
Fully exposed to the elements, bluffs along Lake Michigan frequently need restoration. Erosion has been increasing due to record high water levels throughout the last decade. The increasing height of wave activity is deteriorating the protective sand dunes at the base of the shoreline. The lake levels are rising due in part to a recurrence of extreme 100-year rainfall events. The erosion of coastline is threatening shoreline structures as instability in the land is leading to receding bluffs. Extreme weather events on the Great Lakes are prompting engineers to take new approaches to stabilizing vulnerable waterfront sites.
ENGINEERING
Extensive planning is required for the long-term stability of the built environment. There are several steps needed to secure new buildings. Soils require testing and evaluation for conditions, bearing capacity, and composition. The height of the water table also requires assessment. Once existing conditions are established, engineering can begin. Under the guidance of engineers, including civil, geotechnical, structural, or shoreline, site locations are stabilized for new construction projects.
TAX CREDITS
Lastly, there are several tax credits available both federally and at the state level that apply towards the cost of installing sustainable technology systems. ###