East Bay Green Home Tour

 Last year we looked into the cities of the future as envisioned by the architectural firm of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (see Cities of the Future). This year we're looking into the homes of the future. The East Bay Green Home tour is being introduced this year, inspired by the successful Bringing Back the Natives tour (see Bringing Back the Natives: 2021 Kickoff and Bringing Back the Natives: 2021 Update). The East Bay Green Home tour is a two-day event, made available via Zoom and YouTube, which features tours of a dozen East Bay homes that have gone green. The initial tour was held Sunday, June 6, and the final tour will be held on Sunday, June 13, 2021.

A major focus is moving toward homes powered by renewable energy sources, to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Solar panels, induction cooking, and energy-efficient homes are major focuses. The tour included an all-new, all-electric apartment in Oakland, and homes that had been retrofitted for all-electric. The cost of conversion is high, and unreachable for many, so finding ways to bring everyone along were discussed. 

Solar panels provide power source

Charging station, heat pump and power boxes

I learned a lot from the event, and appreciated the passion and enthusiasm of the presenters. California has set some bold goals to become less dependent on fossil fuels, so it is interesting to see the innovations and programs available to get us there. It's daunting, but exciting to see all the energy pioneers and early adopters of new technologies.

Induction cooking

It's not too late to sign up for the final day of tour. To learn more about the event, see the schedule, and to register, see East Bay Home Tour. Videos of the home tour sites are posted. Resources provides links to information about clean energy, clean power, and green builders, and Sponsors provides a list of sponsors and community partners. The event is free but donations toward event expenses are appreciated.