Countdown to Zero

If there were a catchphrase for the new millennium, it would be “going green.” But what about using almost no energy at all?

Everywhere you look, the environment has become the hot topic of discussion. Whether it’s debating the existence of global warming (spoiler: it exists), electric cars, or solar panels, the green trend is here to stay.

The Stats

Today, custom builders are putting in more and more effort to ensure their homes use less and less energy, saving you money on bills while also protecting the environment.

A leader in this effort is the state of California. According to Custom Home Online, California’s goal for 2020 is to require builders to construct homes using zero net energy by 2020.

Confused what that means? Let’s break that bad boy down.

Zero net energy (ZNE) requirements mean a building can only use as much energy as it is able to produce from clean, renewable resources. If California meets their goal, per Custom Home Online’s article that could mean Californian homes would not only be zero energy ready – they could even produce their own renewable energy.

The opportunity for success in California (and other states who join the charge) is high: ZNE building is a growing market, and many builders are already tapping into the “going green” trend.

The Solutions

Here are just a few ways builders can work ZNE tactics into their homes:

• If the location is right, solar or wind power could be a good source for you
• The use of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) to make sure hot (or cold) air doesn’t seep in from the outdoors unless desired
• High efficiency windows that not only help with heating and cooling, but also bring in natural light
• Using Energy Star appliances
• …and more!

Moving Forward

If you’re building a custom home or thinking about one, be sure to ask your builder how they incorporate green building into their homes. Each builder has their own process, but we should all work towards the goal of zero energy ready homes.

While most homeowners know that energy efficiency is important, most don’t realize just how easy it can be to implement. If you have a newer home, chances are, you’re already a step ahead of the game when it comes to energy efficiency. Newer homes typically tend to be more efficient due to newer appliances, windows, and HVAC systems. However, there are still steps you can take to make your home even more efficient. While installing solar panels or purchasing all new, energy star appliances will definitely save you money in the long run, expensive solutions aren’t necessarily in every homeowners budget. Simple, affordable options, especially when used together, can save you more than you realize on utility costs.