Measure Results from Affordable Zero Net Energy Homes
Validating the Performance of Affordable Zero Net Energy Homes
Institute of Gas Technology dba GTI Energy
Recipient
Des Plaines, IL
Recipient Location
37th
Senate District
68th
Assembly District
$979,829
Amount Spent
Completed
Project Status
Project Result
The ZNE homes were occupied in 2022 and data collection was initiated. The team continues to collect and analyze performance data from both homes.
The Issue
To help achieve the goal of having all new residential construction in California will be zero net energy, demonstrated proof of measured field performance of new and emerging technologies is needed to help overcome skepticism about the magnitude of energy savings potential and cost-effectiveness.
Project Innovation
The project implements lessons learned from previous high performance housing research and measures the results in two new homes being built in partnership with Habitat for Humanity. This project uses innovative construction approaches that couple advanced energy efficiency measures with integrated project design and delivery (IPD) in a cost-effective manner. These approaches reduce structural framing to minimize heat paths through the walls, improve wall and attic insulation, increase equipment efficiency, reduce air infiltration levels, and improve water heater and HVAC performance. The approaches emphasize minimum energy use, high indoor air quality, robust and appealing architectural design, solid structural integrity, and practical, low cost construction. In addition to measuring results from actual occupancy for a year, the project is developing a guide to affordable residential zero net energy design and construction, a training curriculum, and offers training opportunities based on project efforts.
Project Benefits
This project uses innovative construction approaches that couple advanced energy efficiency measures with integrated project design and delivery (IPD) in a cost-effective manner. These approaches reduce structural framing to minimize heat paths through the walls, improve wall and attic insulation, increase equipment efficiency, reduce air infiltration levels, and improve water heater and HVAC performance. The approaches emphasize minimum energy use, high indoor air quality, robust and appealing architectural design, solid structural integrity, and practical, low cost construction. If successful, these innovative approaches could become standard construction practice leading to widespread deployment of affordable ZNE homes.
Affordability
The advanced integrated energy efficiency packages included in this project could reduce annual energy costs for homeowners by exceeding 2016 Title 24 requirements and including PV. Demonstrations will verify actual savings.
Consumer Appeal
Since these homes are designed to have high-performance, right-sized HVAC systems and advanced framing, they will be able to offer improved occupant comfort.
Key Project Members
Kaushik Biswas
Subrecipients
Davis Energy Group, Inc.
Mason-Grant Company
Chitwood Energy Management
Steve Easley & Associates
Energy Docs Home Performance
Design AVEnues LLC
Bruce King
George Koertzen
Habitat for Humanity SJC
Match Partners
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas)
