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Green Building / Net Zero – Suggestions & Tips #30

July 10, 2015 by Grassroots Leave a Comment

green building net zero

Have you heard of the green building terms “Net-Zero” or “Near Zero” homes?It refers to homes with zero net energy consumption, zero carbon emissions and can be independent from the energy supply grid.

Energy that’s harvested on-site from solar & wind technology, along with extremely efficient heating / cooling systems and lighting, help to achieve “net zero”. A home that produces surplus energy may be able to sell it back to a local utility. Design & construction of a new or retrofit net-zero home is key, as well as using energy-efficient building materials.

Zero-energy homes have significant energy-saving features which may include, among other techniques:

  • passive solar heat gain & shading
  • natural conditioning from the earth
  • added insulation
  • high-efficiency windows
  • natural lighting & ventilation
  • energy & water conservation
  • solar panels
  • wind turbines
  • drain water heat recovery
  • heat recovery ventilation
  • programmable thermostats

Of course, energy use does vary widely with the home’s occupants, as does acceptable levels of comfort. For more information about current green building energy incentives, check Energy Star. Learn more about a sustainable housing initiative led by Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation (CMHC) at EQuilibrium™ and green home building at Green Building Advisor.

When inspecting buildings we are often asked questions concerning various topics. Some of these queries can relate to issues not within the scope of a typical inspection. That’s not to say that information about these topics would not be useful however. For that reason, we wanted to include information on some of these topics your further review.

NOTICE: The information contained on the grassroots.ca website is not intended to be exhaustive nor does it necessarily apply to all buildings, systems, components and the likes. While some information may be able to be “transferred” to a building you’re interested in, it should not automatically be applied to it necessarily. It may however simply act as a prompter for areas you may wish to explore further. As such, the information herein is for information purposes only. It’s not intended to be an exhaustive listing of any / all related issues. Always consult a professional before purchasing, leasing or selling a building, or if proceeding with or considering any work to a building. Seek further professional advice, and, analysis including at least three (3) quotations from various professional reputable & qualified contractors before proceeding with any contemplated work, repairs, improvements, and / or, modifications to a building, to better establish the scope of any / all concerns.

Filed Under: All, Attics, Design & Layout, Exterior, Heating & Cooling, Insulation, Plumbing, Safety & Environmental, Suggestions & Tips, Water Heater Tagged With: passive, solar

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