In an otherwise good article regarding ADUs in Durango (Herald, Nov. 23), I was misquoted regarding solar. I am 100% in favor of solar anywhere it’s feasible. Design considerations for new ADUs should take into account existing homes with solar and not block their solar collection, and new ADUs should be built for the best solar exposure, or at the least be solar-ready.
As the former director of the Four Corners Office for Resource Efficiency, I led solar installations for low-income housing projects in La Plata and Archuleta counties for eight years. In 2018, 4CORE was awarded the Colorado Solar Energy Society’s Innovative Solar and Energy Storage Award for low-income senior housing with battery storage technology in Pagosa Springs.
I continue to advocate for solar especially for income-qualified families and residents. 4CORE currently operates Project SunShare, a program with Shaw Solar, where homeowners who meet income qualifications can apply for support. This initiative brings affordable solar power to those who might not otherwise afford rooftop solar. See https://www.fourcore.org/renewable-energy for information.
ADUs are one possible solution to housing and affordability in Durango. Smaller living spaces use less energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It’s important to consider the environmental impact that occurs as a result of urban sprawl and moving housing further out of town creating commuting and transportation challenges. Parking your car and walking or riding to work, going shopping, or to appointments from an in-town ADU reduces traffic, emissions, highway maintenance costs and preserves our rural landscapes.
Laurie Dickson
Durango
