What Makes a Zero Net Energy Home?
What is a Zero Net Energy Home?
For a home to be a Zero Net Energy Home it must produce as much energy as they consume. This is achieved by making the structure air-tight, well insulated, and energy-efficient. These homes can be grid-tied or off-grid.
What Materials are Used to Build a Zero Net Energy Home?
Zero Net Energy Homes are built with energy efficiency in mind. High-grade insulation, energy-efficient windows, and the most efficient appliances will be used.
Even the positioning and overall design of the home will all be considered in making it the most efficient it can possibly be.
Usually, Zero Net Energy Homes will be built with sustainable materials with low to no carbon footprint. Hemp, bamboo, clay or metal roofing, and recycled materials are some examples of low carbon building materials. Sometimes people even try and source local products so their building project itself is more eco-conscious.
What are the advantages of a Zero Net Energy Home?
Owners of Zero Net Energy homes won’t have any energy costs. They can take advantage of many tax breaks. Zero Net Energy Homes usually sell for more because of the energy savings they provide for the homeowners. They are known to have better air quality and are overall healthier homes. ZNE Homes have superior insulation and are more durable.
Additionally, they are better for the environment and are more durable than the average home.
What Makes a Home Zero Net Energy Ready?
According to the Department of Energy
“DOE Zero Energy Ready Homes are verified by a qualified third-party and are at least 40%-50% more energy-efficient than a typical new home.”
If you’re a builder who is interested in learning how to certify a Zero Net Energy Home you can go to energy.gov and read Guidelines for Participating in the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Program
Hirst Solar Consulting loves to partner with home builders and homeowners who want to take advantage of both the eco and financial benefits of solar. Contact us to learn more about your solar options our consulting services are free!
