Pervious or porous surfaces allow water infiltration, which reduces runoff (see below). One example is an open-grid paving system, which allows space for vegetation – the vegetations’ evapotranspiration reduces the heat island effect (see above) caused by pavement.

Photovoltaic systems (also known as solar panels) use sunlight to create electricity. Solar hot water systems, however, use sunlight to heat water directly.

Potable water is water suitable for drinking and supplied from wells or municipal water systems.