Michael Yannell has long had a goal of living in of living in one of the most energy efficient homes in the Midwest. Now the Chicago resident, with the help of architects from Farr Associates and engineers from DBHMS Engineering, has accomplished that goal.
In fact, Yannell’s new Ravenswood home could end up being one of the most energy efficient homes in the nation. He calls it a “net zero” energy residence, which actually produces more energy than it consumes. Forty-eight solar panels on the roof generate the home’s electricity. Water from the washing machine is recycled for use in the home’s toilets. Even the home’s underground garage is topped with a green roof.
Chicago Tribune photographer Chris Walker visited the home recently to document its energy-saving features.
