By Stephen Heckeroth

1. Orientation

 To maximize solar exposure and protect from prevailing wind

2. Direct Gain

 Through glass to trap heat in dark massive materials

3. Thermal Mass and Storage Walls

 To act as a thermal flywheel to maintain more constant temperatures

4. Shading and Overhangs

 To shade in the summer but not in the winter

5. Sun Spaces

 To capture solar energy when needed and vent it when it is not

6. Daylighting

 Insulated transparent panels & light shelves, eliminate daytime lights

7. Earth Connection

 To take advantage of the earth’s more constant temperature

8. Convection or Thermal-Siphon Loops

 To naturally circulate air and liquids

9. Insulating Envelope

 To hold heat in winter and exclude heat in summer

10. Wind Breaks and Berms

 To channel cold weather around or over buildings

11. Deciduous Vegetation

 To shade in summer and let in heat in winter

12. Building Integrated Photovoltaics

 To provide on-site power for essential loads