Builders who do any business with homeowners looking at taking their homes off the grid may be interested in a new online course offered by The Propane Education & Research Council’s Propane Training Academy.
Whether they’re choosing to live off-grid because they’re building in remote areas, they want to live more sustainably or they want to be as self-sufficient as possible, homeowners who don’t rely on utility infrastructure have unique considerations to make.
Renewable energy sources, battery storage and back-up generators are important parts of discussions with these customers, as are the type of appliances and other energy-consuming devices they will put in the home.
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PERC’s new course offers education on many of the considerations that go into those homes, including energy sources and building envelope decisions.
“Off-grid living is a trend that’s gaining traction across the country, and we want people to know that propane can be a go-to energy solution for many of these homes,” Bryan Cordill, director of residential and commercial business development at PERC, said in a statement. “Propane-powered appliances are more energy efficient, have a smaller carbon footprint, and can operate with little to no electricity — all of which is crucial for off-grid homes.”
The course is free to take, and is approved for one credit hour of continuing education from the American Institute of Architects, the National Association of Home Builders, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, and the U.S. Green Building Council.
PERC notes that builders and designers who complete the course will be able to:
- Describe the concept of off-grid homes and the implications for energy supplies and building technologies.
- Assess the options available for renewable energy generation, energy storage and back-up power generators.
- Evaluate the role of off-grid generators and their key operating characteristics.
- Explain how building design and appliance selections are a critical part of a successful off-grid home design.
