On July 18th, green developer Voltaic Solaire will unveil the first building in New York City to power itself. Known as the Delta, the structure combines solar and wind energy to generate 100 percent of its own electricity, hot water, and heat. Voltaic built the Delta with several partners, including IKEA, which furnished the project; Sharp, provider of solar systems; Samsung, which supplied additional solar modules; Kingston Block & Masonry Supply, provider of aggregate cement and bricks; and Eemax, manufacturer of tankless water heaters.
The Delta comprises one triplex residence and one studio residence, with attached restaurant and retail. It will be maintained as a bed and breakfast in order to facilitate ongoing educational visits for schools, tour groups, and so on.
