Net Zero Homes
Net Zero Homes
Net zero homes feature on-site energy generation that is capable of producing as much power as the household uses in a year. Typically, energy consumption is low and they are up to 80 per cent more energy-efficient than homes built to conventional standards.
To achieve net zero, homes must be airtight and use renewable energy, such as solar panels and battery storage. These homes maintain a comfortable consistent temperature, with minimal drafts, and require filters to ensure clean indoor air. The result is an exceptionally energy-efficient, healthy and comfortable home.
What is a net zero home?
A net zero home isn’t just a home with solar panels. It combines energy efficiency and on-site energy generation to produce a better home. Net zero homes are ultra-comfortable, healthy, quiet, sustainable homes that are affordable to live in.
Net zero homes may include:
- Air-source heat pumps to help heat and cool your home.
- Ground source heat pump to help to heat and cool your home
- Solar panels, which generate power for lighting, heating and cooling, hot water and appliances.
- High-efficiency appliances and systems (HVAC) that reduce energy use
- Highly efficient building envelope: exterior walls, foundation, and attic are sealed and well insulated.
- Passive heat: the home is oriented to take advantage of sunlight.
Benefits of a Net Zero Home
In addition to doing your part to reduce Kingston’s greenhouse gas emissions and address the climate emergency, a net zero home will:
- lower your utility bills for years to come
- be more resilient to weather extremes, power outages, and rising energy costs
- be more comfortable due to superior heating, cooling and ventilation systems
- be healthier as a result of a filtered fresh air system that improves air quality and reduces allergens
- reduce the impact of occupants’ day-to-day life on climate and the environment.
Net Zero vs Passive House
Passive House is considered the most rigorous, voluntary, high-performance energy-efficiency standard for homes. These houses make great candidates for net zero homes, since their low energy use is easier to offset with energy production to achieve “net-zero”.
Source: Canadian Home Builders’ Association and Natural Resources Canada