Getting Back to Basics- Shade

Groovey Green mentions the lost importance of something as simple as shade from trees. Much of sustainable, green building design draws from the days when home builders had to consider their building environment as is. Shade from trees was a big helper to the need for cooling. The post offers a few specifics such as: "According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the proper placement of as few as three shade trees will save an average household $100-$250 in energy costs each year." Also: "Deciduous trees, those that lose their leaves in the fall should be planted on the south and west side of the home. (or north and west sides in the southern hemisphere). These trees will provide shade in the spring and summer when you need it most. By fall and winter when the sun is lower in the sky the leaves are gone and the sun can shine through. Be sure to shade all hard surfaces such as driveways, patios and sidewalks to minimize landscape heat load." It's the specifics of placement and types of trees etc. I need spelled out now and again. The post provides some straight forward info. There's also a related article at msnbc.