Zero Energy Housing
(Energy Efficient Building
Design)
Minimize Energy
Comsumption






Solar Energy
Advanced Solar control windows
High Efficiency Appliances
Conserve Water
Earth Sheltering
Geodesic Dome Homes
Solar Energy

Uses photovoltaic cells to convert
sunlight to electricity

Cells are placed on roofs of houses
or on ground

Use materials that store heat
energy and release it at night for
floors and walls

Utilize windows for natural light
Advanced Solar Control
Windows

Windows are spectrally selective
–
–

Maximize visual portion of solar
spectrum
Minimize infrared and ultraviolet
radiation
Inert gas filler (argon).
http://www.taunton.com/finehome
building.com
Low Energy Appliances

Reduce Electricity required to
run them
–



Energy Star Logo
Low flow toilets to reduce water
usage
Turn off appliances when not in
use
Supposed to reduce energy
costs
–
Idealistic for Zero-Energy Homes
Earth Sheltered Housing

Build homes partly underground
–
–

Provides natural insulation (Earth)
Conserves natural landscape
Windows on non-undergound
side
Geodesic Dome Homes




Energy Efficient, cost effective
design
Uninterrupted insulation
Low air infiltration
Slightly more difficult to cool
–
Better in cooler climates
Conserving Water





Tankless Water Heaters
Low Flow Toilets
Re-Use bath and sink water in
tiolets
Size of pipes
Heat recovery systems