ABSTRACT
Introduction The trend towards increasingly energy-conscious design has resulted in a greater focus on energy-saving materials and components. These include photovoltaics and solar collectors, which turn the sun’s energy into electricity and hot water, respectively. Light tubes and wind catchers are energy-saving devices which can make modest reductions in the energy consumption of buildings in the context of a holistic energy-efficient strategy. Micro-wind turbines, within the appropriate context, can generate modest quantities of electricity. Rainwater-harvesting systems can eliminate or reduce mains potable water consumption for certain less critical domestic uses.
