This solar-powered house designed by Students of Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University (named the LUMENHAUS) has two main appeals; being user-friendly and environmentally responsive. Built from renewable and/or recyclable resources, solar panels on its roof serve to collect solar energy. Eclipses System, an advanced building facade installed in the house, has two layers: a metal shutter shade and a translucent insulating panel, which basically gives protection from direct sunlight and provides insulation without blocking natural light. A measurement device that records the energy use, any extra energy generated by the house can be sold back to the power company or used to power your electric car. There is also computer automated controls which allow the house to automatically adapt to changing environmental conditions.

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