Advances in technology mean that our homes can use less energy without anyone noticing, and without sacrificing our quality of life.

Energy storage and controls can reshape your home's electricity demand to harmonize with a clean, decarbonized electricity supply.

Building materials and equipment play a key role in the efficiency and affordability of zero energy buildings. This is why we’re proud to introduce the Zero Energy Project Product Directory to help builders identify appropriate products and to stimulate the supply chain to provide products that will draw the building sector toward greater energy efficiency.

Now homes and buildings whose roofs lack sufficient solar access to get to zero can access solar power - and do it more efficiently.

New opportunities to expand truly affordable rental housing - building low cost zero energy ADU’s – sometimes referred to as in-law apartments, garage apartments, attic apartments, tiny homes, or casitas. But how to make them truly affordable?

Since they are made of glass and sit on rooftops - you would think solar panels would be the first to get damaged in high wind and hail. Check out the real story!

Hint: The Answer Goes Beyond Green Building Buzz Words

Rooftop solar may be ideal for some, but it can be out of reach for others. If you want to live on locally-generated, clean renewable energy, consider a community solar program. Here’s how one family jumped on board and saved money, too.

One thing everyone agrees on: 2020 has been hard to take. In spite of protests, pandemic, and politics, there are some spots that burn brighter amidst the darkness. Here are a few developments on the path to zero that deserve our gratitude, support and celebration.

Since before the dawn of civilization, humans have stayed comfortable by harnessing the forces of nature. These principles can also be applied in today’s homes and buildings to reduce or eliminate energy used for conventional air conditioning.

On new and retrofitted roofs, you can now use aesthetically pleasing solar shingles to keep the weather out and generate renewable energy. They’re more cost-effective than you may think. We compare costs with other roof options and review pros and cons to help you decide if they are right for you.

Thoughtful zero energy design and material selection is only the first step to reducing the climate impact of a new building to zero. In the end, the building needs to generate enough positive energy on site to compensate for both its embodied carbon and its operational energy.