But a thorough study is needed to determine which will cost less and is more practical, according to Sam McPhetres, Saipan-born architect of the Seattle-based Rolluda Architects who was yesterday’s speaker at the Rotary Club of Saipan meeting at the Hyatt.
“With the number of buildings already existing on island, retrofitting may be a good solution, but for now we cannot yet conclude which of these two options is more practical. We need to look at the real situation and conduct a study,” McPhetres said.
He wants to come up with alternative energy sources and sustainable designs for houses in the CNMI that will lower household costs.
He said wind turbines are more reliable alternative energy sources compared to solar energy.
“Wind turbines are better protected against typhoons and winds that could be as strong as 200 miles per hour or more,” he said.
But McPhetres did not scratch out solar energy as an alternative energy source.
“Although wind turbine is a better option, depending on the size, using solar energy is taking the first step,” he said.
McPhetres said in building houses with sustainable designs, several challenges have to be taken into consideration such as termites, salt spray, heat and other factors.
He said if it is feasible, Rolluda Architects will establish a branch on island to cater to the needs of the people.
