Ram Rock House 2020

Ram Rock House

The goal was to create a self-sustainable house that did not compromise on modern comforts or conveniences. Anyone visiting our home would not be aware that it is self-sustainable unless told. Completely off grid; electricity is from solar, rainwater is collected from the roof and sewage is treated using a worm septic system.

The house is made using Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) with double glazed windows and doors throughout.

Cross flow ventilation is used for quick transfer of air. Oriented with main windows to the north and eaves set to allow passive heating from the sun in winter.

Heating is provided by a hydronic heated slab using a combustion boiler to provide the heat. Cooling wasn’t required during the house’s first summer (last summer); however it is planned for an air conditioner to be installed to make use of the excess power generated. The electrical system has been sized for winter and currently has 30kW of solar panels on the roof, a conservative 50kWh LiFePO4 battery and provides up to 45kW of 3 phase electricity.

This house is all electric, the off grid system provides power to all our appliances and includes charging our primary vehicle (Tesla EV).

During construction the house was built using solar electricity and the temporary system used for this is available for viewing as well.

Tesla S100D EV on display for Sustainable House Day 2020.