March 12th, 2024
In America…
Part 1: A net-zero home is one that produces as much energy as it uses. The home is typically designed and built to use less energy than standard houses and often incorporates renewable energy, such as solar, to power the home.
The solar power system of each home is often connected to the grid—allowing homes to draw electricity from the grid if/when needed and contribute electricity to the grid when the home has a surplus—with the aim of net-zero consumption. Some homes even end up net positive—producing more energy than they use. Homeowners also have the option of installing solar battery storage as a backup power option.
A net zero home is not complicated and relatively easy to achieve, especially in new construction homes.