Energy Renovation

We know how to do it right, from the start.
Energy Renovation is a specialty of Arapahoe Architects. The owner, Bobby Craig, realized over the years that many home and commercial building owners were overlooking critical elements to not only making their project more beautiful and functional, but also more energy efficient. Arapahoe Architects is now an expert in the field of Energy Renovation by developing a holistic approach to renovations . “When individuals remodel their kitchen or add square footage, they don’t usually think about how to make their building more energy efficient – be it a home or commercial structure. That is where we come in. We create a long term phased plan for not only making a project more beautiful and functional, but also more energy efficient; whether it be new windows and insulation, to the installation of a new heating or hot water system powered by solar.” says Bobby Craig, “We coordinate all aspects of the project to create a seamless approach to Energy Renovation.”

Remodel Smart
We take a holistic approach to your home remodel by designing beautiful and functional improvements. With implementation of our Architecture and Energy Renovation program your home will work smart, well into the future. Call today for your complimentary consultation.

L1020890.JPG

Renewable Energy Open House Highlights Solar Technology

In 2006 the Homeowners Association of Longbranch Condominiums made some futuristic decisions for the renovation of their 60 unit complex.  At that time, they were simply embarking on an exterior remodel of their building, which was originally built in 1976.  As they discussed the options for sustainable materials and products for the renovation, their architect, Bobby Craig of Arapahoe Architects in Breckenridge, encouraged them to work with him to create a long term plan for renewable energy for the entire building – an energy renovation.  Today, 5 years later, Longbranch has installed the largest Solar Thermal supplemental hot water system in Summit County.  This system will provide 78% of the domestic hot water for Longbranch, while supplementing the hot tub, pool and sauna.

Installation July 2011

  • 28 Collector Panels
  • Total cost $104,000
  • Governor’s Energy Audit Rebate $15,000
  • Federal Tax Credit approximately $500 per owner
  • Estimated Rate on Return 5 years
  • Estimated energy cost savings $20,000 per year
  • Current natural gas budget $60,000, includes domestic hot water, heat, and gas fireplaces.
  • Solar Equipment Depreciation  $26,520 over 5 years
  • 140 tons cumulative carbon mitigation over 5 years
  • Approximately 78% energy supplement of domestic hot water for 60 units
  • Approximately 66% energy supplement of sauna, hot tub and pool.
  • Excess heat will be dumped into the hot tub and pool
  • NO OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE FOR THE OWNERS.  Bank of the West 5 yr. Line of Credit issued. The energy savings will pay off the loan.
  • Produce 500,000 BTU per hour equivalent to 56kW
  • 8 (4x8) panels would supply a 4,000 sq ft. house
  • 6 (4x8) panels would supply a 3,000 sq ft. house
  • 20 year life expectancy

Energy Renovation is a specialty of Arapahoe Architects.  In 2009 owner Bobby Craig realized that home and commercial building owners were overlooking critical elements to not only making their project more beautiful and functional, but also more energy efficient.  Arapahoe Architects is now an expert in the field of Energy Renovation by developing a holistic approach to renovations.  Individuals   remodel  their kitchens or add square footage, they don’t usually think about how to make their building more energy efficient – be it a home or commercial structure.  That is where we come in.  We create a long term phased plan for not only making a project more beautiful and functional, but also more energy efficient;  whether it be new windows and insulation, to the installation of a new heating or hot water system powered by solar,” says Bobby Craig,  “ We coordinate all aspects of the project to create a seamless approach to Energy Renovation.”  With partners Mark Stearns from Mech Tech and Bob Kingston from RE-Align Technology, Arapahoe Architects did just that with Longbranch Condominiums.