Net Zero? Why and How

 
Posted by Clarum Homes on July 17, 2012 | Categories: energy efficiency | No comment

Our last post covered what “Net Zero” means and whether a Net Zero house is on- or off-the-grid. So why is Net Zero such a good idea? And what does it take to achieve it?

The “why” is easy:

  • Net-zero homes are cheaper in the long run. True, they’re more expensive upfront, but over their lifespan, they cost less: they’re intensely efficient and you can say goodbye to your energy bills.
  • You may be eligible for tax credits. The IRS and California offers incentives for energy-efficiency; local power suppliers may offer credits, too. At Clarum Homes, we use technologies that often qualify.
  • Net Zero homeowners are safe from the rising cost of energy. Fluctuating prices don’t affect you when you’re producing all the power you need renewably, on-site.
  • Resale value is higher. A 2011 study by the Earth Advantage Institute showed that energy-efficient homes in Oregon, Washington and California resold for at least 30% more than conventional homes.
  • Net Zero homes are more comfortable. The interior temperature in our Net Zero homes is more uniform than in conventional houses, creating a more pleasant living space.
  • They help ease one’s impact on the environment. Net Zero homes reduce your reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels and the carbon emissions they produce.

How to Design for Net Zero

First step, a Net Zero house should be intelligently oriented within its surroundings: the house can be situated in the lee of a harsh wind, for example, or south-facing to take advantage of natural daylight. Choices like these make a permanent impact on how hard your systems have to work to keep your home bright, warm, or cool enough for comfort. But they can only be made once. At Clarum, our team makes careful planning decisions to ensure we locate your Net Zero home in the optimal location.

Next, we focus on the building envelope. This is the barrier between inside and out, but it’s not just the walls – it’s also the roof, foundation, windows, doors, weather stripping, etc. With an efficient envelope, less heat leaks out during the winter, less heat leaks in during the summer, your HVAC system does less work, and your home consumes less energy.

With passive design and a good envelope, your needs for heating, ventilation and air conditioning will be minimal. Also, your home will be naturally bright and airy. Finally, we install lighting and HVAC designed for efficiency, taking those built-in advantages a step further.

From there, your remaining energy needs come down to the appliances and electronics you choose to include in your lifestyle. Select for efficiency, conserve where possible, and you’ll lower your overhead (and ecological footprint) that much further.

We can help you build your Net Zero home. To learn more, please call us at 650.322.7069


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