Target: Zero-Energy Homes

From Natural Life Magazine July/August, 2006

A new generation of homes that produce as much energy as they use
http://www.life.ca/nl/110/zeh.html

There is a new buzzword in the green building industry and it’s “Zero Energy Homes” (ZEH) or “Net-Zero Energy Homes” (NZEH). The term describes buildings that are connected to the utility grid, but combine highly energy-efficient design and technology with solar electric and thermal systems to produce as much energy as they use on an annual basis, resulting in net zero energy consumption.

Zero Energy Homes have a number of advantages, including improved comfort, as an energy-efficient building envelope reduces temperature fluctuations, reliability because the systems continue functioning during blackouts, protection from
fluctuations in energy prices and environmental sustainability. They optimize a variety of features, including climate-specific design; passive solar heating and cooling; energy-efficient construction, appliances and lighting; and solar thermal and solar electric systems.