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Eric, depending on where you build, you should consider constructing the whole north face of your house with glass. But you must have sufficient eaves to exclude the summer sun and minimal glass on the S & W sides. The size of the eaves will depend on your latitude, but usually 600mm. Winter will have the sun shining in providing you with free heating. Thermal mass inside the house (concrete slab/tile/slate in the solar collection areas and either insulated double brick or reverse brick veneer) helps with maintaining a comfortable temp all year. Been living in one of these since 93 and wouldn't even consider to anything other than a solar passive design for living comfort and energy costs.
Also, considering adding solar panels but haven't delved into it yet.
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