"We are achieving this with a number of conservation technologies which reduce energy use by about two-thirds of that of a typical townhome."
"To achieve zero net energy, zHome is tied to the electric grid. During the summer, when the homes use less energy than is produced by rooftop solar panels, zHome is a net energy generator. In the cold winter, when solar production is lower and energy demand is higher, zHome will draw energy from the grid. Based on our commercial grade energy model, the electricity generation and use will average out to zero over the course of the year."
And seeing how I'm quite interested in high efficiency building design, this project comes as yet more proof to me that there is plenty to be done using common sense and nature as an inspiration. Most of the materials are readily available and we must realize that increasing efficiency is a win-win situation in the long term for everything and everyone involved. With all of this in mind, I look forward to doing my part at home when the time comes.
As mentioned in Part 1 of the project featured in Dwell, this quote should serve as a reminder of our duties from the past and present;
Stephen Ambrose- “In the 19th century, we devoted our best minds to exploring nature. In the 20th century, we devoted ourselves to controlling and harnessing it. In the 21st century, we must devote ourselves to restoring it."
Please read and follow the multiple part story here:
Dwell: zHome - A Zero-Energy Community