Westminster
The largest solar powered neighborhood in Colorado is being built in
Westminster. McStain Neighborhoods will build a minimum of 42 homes
that will be completely powered by solar panels. That alone is enough
to displace over 4 tons of soot caused by coal burning plants every
single year. The homes are tied into the existing power grid, but it
is estimated that most homeowner’s bills will be very close to
zero, and will actually be owed money during sunny months.
This has spurred many developers in and around Westminster to begin
building homes and buildings that are designed with solar panels. Incorporating
photovoltaic cells into the construction process allows for seamless
integration into the existing power structure as well as increased grants
and government support. Building a structure that can power itself will
be the standard in less than twenty years.
That neighborhood in Westminster is a walking community built on 125
acres that incorporates small businesses, homes and multiple use lofts
and apartments. There are many amenities such as nine parks, two pools,
schools and easy access to Denver, and Denver International Airport.
Colorado is quickly becoming one of the most solar friendly states in
the nation.
|
|
