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What makes this house so "green" and environmentally friendly? It seems like everyone is getting into the "green" mood these days. And while we applaud hotels that don't launder linens and towels every day, change out incandescent lights for CFLs, and work to reduce their environmental impact, we take things a step further. A BIG step further. A House of Open Arms is proudly a completely zero-carbon vacation house, the only one of which we are aware in the US Virgin Islands. That means that all the electricity you use while you are here comes only from renewable, non-polluting, non-carbon-dioxide-emitting solar power. In order to harness the power of the sun, we use a total of eight solar panels: five on the Villa and three on the Cottage. These gather energy during the day and store it in two sets of independent battery banks (again, one in the Villa and another in the Cottage). Since it is difficult to store large amounts of power in this manner, we use extremely energy-efficient lighting (you can't even tell the difference) and appliances, all of which retain the convenience and comfort you would find in your own home. Most guests find this to be an amazing thing, and we love to see them take ideas home. In addition to the all-solar electricity, the water used in the house is all purified rainwater. Every time it rains, water is collected, stored, and then filtered and purified before being pumped out throughout the house. Beyond the power and water systems, we encourage our guests to try their hand at conservation while they are here. We will encourage you to practice good habits during your stay, such as turning off lights when you leave a room. Finally, as a green vacation spot, we do not allow smoking on the property. Future additions to our system will include the installation of additional solar panels, possible installation of a small, extremely quiet wind-power generator up the hill (to ensure that it is not heard), and a gray-water-reclamation cistern to use as irrigation water on the property. As a back-up to our solar power, we have just completed the installation of an efficient, quiet generator. (It's so quiet that guests have not even known it was running.) Since we strive to be as environmentally aware and responsible as possible, the generator is only run in order to replenish the batteries should they be run down by extended periods of cloudiness or larger energy use. If you prefer to make your vacation completely carbon-free, we are more than happy to accommodate your request. Here you will experience truly green living and will realize how well you can live while remaining in balance with the world around you. Visit us for the most comfortable and environmentally friendly vacation you'll ever have! |
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