Net Zero Energy homes are designed to actually produce the energy which they utilize to operate. In other words, these homes are constructed with the ability to function without requiring an outside energy source.
This is made possible by simultaneously reaching two goals – using innovative methods to reduce the amount of energy the home requires, and generating the power it does need onsite, through alternative energy sources. Homeowners will experience greatly reduced operating costs, a quiet and comfortable environment, enhanced indoor air quality, and the satisfaction of knowing that they are contributing to fewer carbon emissions and a greener planet.
Is a Net Zero Home Attainable?
We do have the technology to build a net zero home, but it does take a radical change in how we think and live. Here are some basic steps to moving towards living “net-zero.”
- Audit your home to identify where waste is currently occurring. There is no sense in generating energy which will then be lost through vulnerable areas.
- Take measures to plug up the identified leaks. For instance, 40% of heat comes in through windows, so installing slatted shades can help significantly in lowering cooling costs.
- Change the lightbulbs. Although compact fluorescent lighting (CFLs) are still struggling to catch on, these bulbs last 10 times longer and use one-quarter of the energy.
- Heating water takes a lot of energy. Install a solar water heater, and set it to “warm” and not “hot”.
- Install low-flow shower heads – the less water you use, the less water it is necessary to heat.
- Purchase Energy-Star appliances if your current appliances are older than 8 or 9 years old. And take the second refrigerator out of the garage – just a 10 degree increase in ambient temperature cause the appliance to utilize 20% more energy. And in Sarasota, the garage is generally a lot hotter than 10 degrees warmer than your home.
- Install ceiling fans. Although many consider these fixtures to be a design nightmare, the ventilation which they provide can help you to reduce the amount of energy expended by your HVAC.
- Finally, be diligent about changing your own behaviors. Turn off lights when you leave the room, for instance, and unplug computers which are not being used.
How Do I Generate Power at Home?
In the Sarasota area, solar power is the most obvious way to generate one’s own energy at their home. Solar power is generated utilizing photovoltaic cells built into solar panels. The panels are situated on the , and electricity is generated when sunlight hits the panels. The current can be stored in batteries for future use, but is most often funneled into the electric power grid. It can then be sold to the power utility for credit. A home solar power system may be costly to install, but can begin to pay for itself within a matter of years.
How Do I Qualify for Tax Breaks?
While Net Zero homes require a financial investment up front, both the federal government and the utility companies may offer financial incentives to help recoup the initial cost of a Net Zero energy efficient home. You should also begin to realize a return on investment (ROI) from the very first energy bill.
Here’s are the facts about receiving tax credits and rebates for a Net Zero home.
- Energy Star provides a Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit up to 30% for all homeowners.
- Many electric and gas companies offer rebates for including energy efficient upgrades in your property.
- Research more about the Net Zero tax credits offered in your area by visiting the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) website. This is a powerful resource with a large number of rebates and incentives.
Lindahl Construction is committed to helping you build the most beautiful Sarasota, Longboat and Siesta Key custom homes, while including the features and details which are important to you. From green innovations to Net Zero homes, we’d love to discuss building an energy efficient home with you.