CSM-1550 Off-Grid Construction I

Credits 3
The construction of buildings that are completely independent of traditional utilities like the electric grid is a growing field, increasingly popular among populations who are committed to more sustainability and self-sufficiency. This course provides students with an introduction to the concepts of off-grid construction. They learn the role of utilities in building design and analyze the implications of off-grid construction on human activities. They also learn the preliminary steps of off-grid construction such as planning, creating a design program and selecting a site.

Prerequisite(s):

Course Outcomes

Describe the basic concepts of off-grid construction.
Explain the role of public utilities such as electricity, gas, water, internet/ telecom in site and building design.
Analyze the impacts of off-grid living on human activities, including, but not limited to, food, water and physical safety.
Describe the planning process involved in locating a building off-grid.
Create a design program for an off-grid building.
Describe the site selection process for an off-grid building.