"Nature House" at the Leslie Science Center in Ann Arbor , Michigan

Homes can also use the sun's energy to create electricity using technology such as photovoltaic cells. The Urban Option home has photovoltaic shingles installed on the roof, which provide the majority of the house's electricity.

A home can easily take advantage of the sun's energy by using passive solar energy. Passive solar energy is simply using the sun's rays to heat water, heat rooms, and/or enhance indoor lighting. Homes, such as the "Nature House", use special construction materials and lots of windows to passively heat and light their rooms. These homes often use external solar collectors to heat their water.

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Urban Options' Energy & Environmental Demonstration House in East Lansing , Michigan