Solar Energy at On Top of the World
On Top of the World Communities supports the initiative of our residents who choose to “go solar.” An example of this is the Shira family who moved to the Candler Hills East neighborhood in June 2006, along with their commitment to a lifestyle of saving energy. When relocating from South Florida to Ocala, the Shiras chose On Top of the World Communities because of its partnership with Building America and ENERGY STAR™ certification for every new home. On Top of the World Communities, Inc. has a well established reputation for quality construction.
David and Paula Shira knew before their home was even built that they wanted to later install a Solar Electric System (SES) on the roof. This system would enable them to produce electrical energy for their home, reducing their need for power from the local grid. Working with the On Top of the World sales team, they chose a 
home design and home site which would provide maximum exposure of their roofline to the southern sky. In addition, the construction department at On Top of the World minimized the ventilation outlets located on the side of the roof where they planned to install the SES.
Before beginning this solar panel project, the Shiras submitted an “Application for Approval of Request for Modification” to the Candler Hills Home Owners Association. The Shiras found the Board to be very supportive of the project.
According to Mr. Shira, installing solar panels is not a do-it-yourself project. The Shiras used Energy Conservation Services of North Florida, Inc. (ECS) which sells and installs SES equipment. They have been in the solar contracting business for 30 years, and Mr. Shira found that they were the most experienced company in the state.
In the summer of 2007 the Shiras installed 22 photovoltaic panels on their roof and began producing power for their home. Requiring 35-40 kw per day to run their 
home, this system provided about 55% of that need. After observing the system’s performance for one year, the Shiras added another 16 panels. With this increase, they are now producing approximately 110% of their energy needs each month. The extra 10% translates into “banked” kilowatts (about 2,000 so far) which the Shiras can draw on during the upcoming summer months when their energy needs will increase. In the near future, the Shiras intend to use some of this extra power to charge a plug-in hybrid car. At that point, Mr. Shira says, solar energy will provide 100% of their home energy needs and 80% of their transportation needs.
In addition to decreasing the Shiras’ need for power from the local grid, the SES has also reduced their home’s CO2 gas emissions by about 25,372 pounds as of 5/18/09. The amount increases as each day passes.
In order to provide the highest benefit from the SES, it is best to lower the home’s energy need as much as possible. At On Top of the World Communities, our new homes are 13% more energy-efficient than a standard Energy Star™ certified home (and they average a HERS, or Home Energy Rating System, score of 72). This is accomplished by using Low-E energy-efficient windows, R-30 attic insulation, a tightly sealed building envelope, sealed recessed can lights with CFL bulbs and other energy saving features.
With the cost of electricity sure to increase in the future, the Shiras believe their decision to begin using “clean” energy was a wise investment and a great lifestyle choice. On Top of the World Communities couldn’t agree more.
For more information about how you can reduce your energy costs, visit the Progress Energy website and the Florida Solar Energy Association website. To speak to the Shiras about their experience with this project, you may contact them at 352-236-1928.
