Drake Landing Solar Community, Solar residential development in Okotoks, Canada
Drake Landing Solar Community is a residential development in Okotoks with 52 homes fitted with solar collectors mounted on garage roofs. The system stores thermal energy underground to provide heating throughout the winter months without needing additional fuel sources.
Construction began in 2005 and operations started in 2007 as North America's first project using seasonal solar thermal storage for residential heating. The development demonstrated that entire communities could function without relying on natural gas or oil for warmth.
The community received international attention from researchers and professionals studying sustainable residential developments, including visitors from South Korea examining geothermal technologies.
The community is accessible like any residential neighborhood, with regular streets and standard entry points for visitors and residents. Self-guided exploration or organized tours are both options to learn about the solar systems and how the homes operate.
During the 2015-2016 season, the community achieved complete energy independence, meeting all of its heating needs through solar power alone. This is notable because it proves that cold climates are not inherently dependent on fossil fuels for warmth.
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