Solar powered social housing opens in San Diego

A newly opened affordable housing apartment block in San Diego, USA, is 100% powered using renewable solar energy.

The $17.6 million project - formerly a dilapidated motel - houses 42 state-of-the-art green apartments, with the first new residents moving in this week.

Lights accidentally left on will automatically be turned off, and bathroom fans will run until steam has cleared to prevent mould.

Apartments are kept cool through natural ventilation and ceiling fans rather than air conditioning, whilst water heaters, lightbulbs and appliances are all energy efficient.

Landscaping outside the property is designed to use minimal water.

New residents had to agree to learn about a healthy diet, exercise, and environmentally friendly cleaning before being offered an apartment in the block.