ADU Microgrid Prototype
Location: Prarie View A&M University (PVAMU)
Client: PVAMU & various Houston homeowners
Funding Source: U.S. Department of Education Grant
Contractor of Record: Nash Industries Inc.
Project Type: Campus demonstration + deployable housing prototype
Partnership: Houston Habitat for Humanity; Huber Engineered Materials; Simpson Strongtie; Rockwool; Fortified Home; Tamlyn
Research Assistants: Brooke Meshack, Jaylin Lee, Anderson Yauripoma, Christian Duncan, Covington Thompson, Russell Lewis, Joe Livigns, Courtney Sneed
Architecture Studio: Design VII & VIII
Microgrid-ready ADU prototype designed for hurricane resilience, performance, and scalable housing delivery designed for multigenerational living and energy independence. Developed in collaboration with a nonprofit housing partner, this prototype responds to the need for resilient, affordable, and adaptable housing in hurricane-prone regions.
Integrated microgrid-ready infrastructure (solar + battery-ready systems)
Designed for multigenerational occupancy
Developed as both a teaching tool and deployable housing model
Leveraged material efficiency and constructability for nonprofit builders
Key Features
Solar-ready + battery-integrated infrastructure
Screened porch housing mechanical + energy systems
Recessed cassette mini-split system
High-performance envelope (rockwool insulation strategy + Huber ZIP System)
Raised structure for flood resilience
Outcomes
Successfully built and deployed with nonprofit partner
Recognized as a model for scalable resilient housing
Adopted as a repeatable prototype for homeowners in need