company history

Solar Design Associates is an interdisciplinary group of dedicated professionals working to create a sustainable built environment. Since its founding in 1974, the firm has earned an international reputation for the pioneering integration of renewable energy systems and environmentally responsive building design.

At the time of the first oil embargo, Solar Design Associates' President Steven Strong worked on the Alaskan pipeline project as an engineering consultant. There he became convinced that, rather than "going to the ends of the earth to extract the last drop of fossil fuel", there were easier and better ways to deliver comfort and convenience to consumers.

He returned to Boston with a bit of money and a great deal of conviction, and founded Solar Design Associates, to create energy-conscious buildings powered by renewable energy.

For over thirty years, SDA has incorporated renewable energy systems - particularly solar electricity - into the design of commercial buildings and custom homes. At the same time, we have tirelessly championed renewable energy utilization and acceptance through publishing, public speaking appearances and advocacy activities.

The firm has become known for inspired design of delightful living and work environments that require little or no purchased energy. Homes and buildings range from Maine to California and across the globe. They vary in size from large to modest; in style from ultra-contemporary to traditional. They comprise both grid-interactive and stand-alone solar electric systems, and can incorporate solar thermal and wind technologies. Our most innovative work involves Building Integrated Photovoltaics. BIPV integrates solar energy collectors into the skin of buildings, instead of simply adding an array of solar panels to a roof.

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