In building a home for passive solar energy, which direction should the majority of the home's windows face?

In building a home designed to maximize passive solar energy, the majority of the windows should face south. This orientation allows the home to capture the most sunlight throughout the day, particularly in the winter months when the sun's path is lower in the sky. By having windows that face south, the home can take advantage of natural sunlight, which helps to warm the interior spaces during the day, reducing the need for artificial heating and thus saving energy.

Additionally, south-facing windows can be designed with overhangs or shade structures to prevent overheating during the summer months when the sun is higher in the sky. This design feature allows for natural light penetration while maintaining thermal comfort. Properly placed south-facing windows can enhance the home's energy efficiency, allowing for a greater reliance on passive solar heating throughout the year.