What is a Net Zero Ready Home?

A Net Zero Ready home is designed and built to the same standards as a Net Zero home without solar panels. A Net Zero Ready home is wired so that in the future, as solar or other renewable energies become more affordable, solar panels or other options can be installed. In essence, a Net Zero Ready home provides a net-zero home's benefits without all of the initial financial investment. This home type offers a streamlined, efficient path to achieve Net Zero Energy when the homeowner is ready and able to pursue it.

Why Design and Build Net Zero Ready Homes?

By introducing Net-Zero Ready Homes into the market, we can help to lower the environmental impact of homes. Net Zero Homes reduce the reliance on the energy sector, thus improving their resiliency. In essence, the net-zero movement is too critical not to succeed. Moreover, a home designed to Net Zero standards will save substantial operational costs throughout its lifetime. Some builders, such as Wright Jenkins, advertise up to 70% in operational cost savings. Considering the increased comfort, safety, and durability elements, they are a reliable investment for consumers, builders, and developers. Net Zero Homes are also a good option for those interested in disaster relief homes. Many Net Zero Homes follow the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety's FORTIFIED program .

Are Net Zero Ready Homes Expensive?

A Net Zero Ready Home is typically more expensive than a typical home. However, according to the Rocky Mountain Institute , the cost increase is modest and smaller than most consumers realize. Net Zero Ready Homes implement cost-competitive design strategies to keep prices as reasonable as possible. And as this market matures, costs should become even more affordable. Another report prepared by the DOE illustrates the cost savings of a DOE Zero Energy Ready Home compared to a baseline home monthly. In addition, some states provide financial incentives for buildings built to these standards. Currently, most certifications are for individual homes. However, the DOE is developing a certification program for multi-family residences that should provide a streamlined process for affordable certifications of multiple houses at once.

What is a Net Zero Ready House Plan?

A Net Zero Ready House Plan is a set of construction documents for a home designed to Net Zero standards, including wiring for future solar PV installation or another type of renewable energy. Take a look here for some examples of plans.

What Net Zero Ready Home Certifications are Available?

There are several Net Zero Ready Home Certifications and programs available in the market. Below are a few of the most popular: US Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) Certification Program Earth Advantage Zero Energy Ready Certification Program PHIUS (Passive House Institute US, Inc.) PHIUS+ Certification Program CHBA (Canadian Home Builders' Association) Net Zero Home Labelling Program Better Buildings BC Net Zero Energy Ready Program These certification programs use sound science and data to develop certification requirements. Many programs also incorporate other certified products like WaterSense products and ENERGY STAR appliances. Most programs require energy modeling before construction and post-construction energy tests to verify that the building is functioning as effectively as it was designed to do. A Net Zero Ready Home's key components include energy efficiency, conservation, and efficient water management. It also ensures that homes have a substantial thermal building envelope and a healthy indoor air quality. Notably, these homes are set up for future solar PV installation or other renewable energy technologies for homeowners to install when appropriate.