An increasing number of cities, counties, and states around the U.S. are committed to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and implementing mandatory “zero” policies for new construction, according to New Buildings Institute (NBI). Homeowners now have a reasonable path to shift to renewable energy, efficient heating and cooling, and sustainably built homes. Building electrification, transitioning from fossil fuels to clean electric heating and hot water, is a cost-effective way to achieve clean energy in buildings. “Zero energy homes are the homes of the future — available today,” says Joe Emerson, founder of Zero Energy Project.
Property owners can install renewable energy systems like solar, wind, hydroelectric, or geothermal energy to power their homes and achieve “net zero energy” status when energy production equals grid-supplied electricity over 12 months. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Zero Energy Ready Homes certification program and the EPA’s Energy Star Renewable Energy Ready Home program offer options for energy-efficient and sustainable home building.
Energy-efficient homes are healthier, with built-in protections against mold and contaminants, stabilizing temperatures, and improving indoor air quality. These homes also cost less to own, potentially resulting in zero utility bills if they are “net zero.” Tax breaks, rebates, and green mortgage programs make energy-efficient homes more affordable for homeowners.
Companies like Dvele and Eco Estates offer high-end prefabricated and sustainable home options with solar energy systems and energy storage. Log and timber homes are also getting an energy-efficient upgrade with modern materials and technology. The path to net zero is attainable for any home, with options for deep retrofits, efficiency measures, and energy assessments available. The future of homes lies in energy-efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly designs, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
