Beside the Georgian Bay in Ontario, architect and partner at Toronto's CORE Architects Charles Gane built a 2,100-square-foot getaway for himself that combines urban building practices with rugged self-sufficiency. The aluminum window system and flat roof are common characteristics of Toronto's high-rises, while the cedar shingles belong to cottage vernacular.  Photo 1 of 6 in Best of #ModernMonday: Latest Breakthroughs in Solar Power by Luke Hopping from Modern Meets Rugged at This Off-the-Grid Retreat in Ontario

Best of #ModernMonday: Latest Breakthroughs in Solar Power

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Why has solar finally taken off as a viable renewable energy source?

@ENERGY: Cost of solar has dropped rapidly across the US. Solar panels today cost about 30% of what they did 3 years ago.

@LetUsSuppose: Along with a massive drop in prices, there are many local, state, and federal tax refunds available for solar.

@livingwhit: Awareness. I think it all comes down to the increased communication of the need for renewable energy sources and benefits.

Beside the Georgian Bay in Ontario, architect and partner at Toronto's CORE Architects Charles Gane built a 2,100-square-foot getaway for himself that combines urban building practices with rugged self-sufficiency. The aluminum window system and flat roof are common characteristics of Toronto's high-rises, while the cedar shingles belong to cottage vernacular.