The First Zero home in the state of Utah is attracting a great deal of attention. Affordable green living is something that locals are quite interested in. Families deserve both energy savings and greater energy independence.
Unique Features of the Zero Home
The First Net-Zero home in Utah has outstanding efficiency ratings. In addition, this home is one of the first within the state to receive home status from the United States Department of Energy and holds a HERS rating of zero.
It was built as a prototype and was nicknamed the “Zero Home”. The structure is similar to a split-level, with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and a four car garage. All the energy used within the home is produced on site by way of renewable sources.
This home is an EPA indoor air plus residence and is Energy Star Certified. Also, this remarkable property is the first and only home within zone 5 to be certified as Net-Zero. Climate zone 5 is a very difficult status to receive.
The First Zero home in Utah has a unique Photovoltaic system which contributes to the zero home’s self sufficiency. In addition, vehicle charging stations have been installed in the corner of the garage.
What makes this First Net-Zero home so unique is the energy efficient features that have been installed. The energy efficient features include advanced framing techniques, spray foam and blow-in installation. Blow-in installation is more energy efficient than traditional home installation.
The Net-Zero home is equipped with a high efficient HVAC system, solar water heat and low flow faucets. A home of this nature could cost anywhere from $350,000 to $400,000. Many feel, however, that a price of $400,000 is a steal, especially within the Utah area.
Benefits to Homeowners
There seem to be endless benefits that come with a Net-Zero home. For instance, homeowners will only have to use their air conditioner or furnace 3-5 times per year. Doing so results in zero energy costs for the homeowner.
The Zero home also has a home unique security system and built in control system. The touchscreen control system allows the homeowner to see how much energy the house is generating at any given time through real-time energy analytics.
The security system and thermostat are wired together into the same system. Therefore, if a door or window is left unlocked, a message will automatically be sent to the homeowner by way of text message. In addition, every home has to have an Internet connection and computer. The Zero-home has a 50-mbps wireless Internet system connection.
Families do deserve energy savings and greater independence. The Net-Zero home is a perfect example that an energy efficient modernized home does not have to cost millions of dollars. The KTGY Group hopes to build additional green living homes in the future, and there is significant interest among Utah residents for projects of this nature.
Eco-friendly properties may become a reality in other areas of the country as well. Therefore, green living may soon become more affordable for middle class Americans.
Your readers might be interested in pictures of the interior and energy efficient technologies inside the house that you mentioned. I have a few posted of the Netzero home at http://planetearthdesign.com/green-home-decor-a-peek-inside-a-net-zero-home/
Thank you for sharing such valuable content!
Thank you for sharing! Since people are concerned about whether the house is energy efficient when choosing a home these days, the construction of such buildings is becoming more and more relevant.
In addition to current environmental conditions, the rising electricity and fuel prices make zero-homes gain popularity. In general, this is what our homes should become in the near future. Thank you for sharing this info!