Jordan House has a background in biomedical engineering from the University of Chicago and the University of Minnesota – Department of Surgery.  He worked on the original design of the insulin pumps used in people.  He has been working with alternative power for over a decade.  Recently, he installed a 3.5-kilowatt photovoltaic system and a one-kilowatt wind turbine system in rural Kansas as a part of an Extreme Makeover – Home Edition episode that should air in January.   Jordan is also working with Deb Spencer of Water’s Edge to use solar power to drive a fountain for a water feature at the Discovery Center.

 Most large photovoltaic applications involve converting the direct current (DC) generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) so that the system can seamlessly supplement the electricity provided to the house by the electric utility.  For some small, specialized applications, like recreational vehicle power and water garden pumps, the DC current can be used without conversion. Jordan will be talking about how we can implement this energy source in our pond designs. This is an ideal solution to remote locations were electricity is not readily available. He will also talk about the improvements and efficiencies of solar power.

Ramsey Environmental Group provides two types of alternate solar power: solar thermal and photovoltaic.  Solar thermal systems are used to power domestic hot water, space heating, pool and spa heating and even industrial heating.  Photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight directly into electrical current.  Ramsey Environmental Group has provided nationwide environmental solutions since 1982.  Their services include: property condition assessments, indoor air quality (IAQ) assessments, expert testimony, mold inspections, mold remediations, asbestos and lead inspections, phase I environmental site assessments (ESAs).  They also evaluate, design, install and service alternative power systems. Wind turbines are a cost-effective source of electricity, but our installations have been limited to rural areas because of the need for a tower of at least fifty feet.