This analysis, using standard business investment metrics, shows that a complete zero energy home retrofit can return 15% a year with zero risk. Beat that Wall Street!

People often make choices with negative impacts to their health, wealth, and overall well being without realizing it. These are called risk behaviors, and there is a large body of research about techniques to help people make healthier, more positive decisions. Here are ways these techniques can be used to influence people to buy zero energy homes.

The first certified Passive House in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers more than super energy efficiency. It demonstrates that high-performance homes can be built for the same price as code-built homes.

Imagine a world where a builder can set a precise level of building air tightness, pay one contractor to deliver it, and reach the same performance standard on every home. That world is here... today.

One payoff of a super insulated building envelope is a smaller heating and cooling system. Achieving the payoff requires HVAC contractors to plan and implement the project a bit differently than a typical one.

High-performance homes deserve high-performance ventilation. BuildEquinox now offers a second generation ventilation system with an integrated heat pump and sophisticated user-friendly controls.

Designers and builders may need to make adjustments in their homes when California implements its upcoming zero energy building code for homes. Those adjustments are spelled out and illustrated in this new booklet. It’s a great guide for zero energy home design no matter where you live.

Third-party certifier, Earth Advantage, has evolved their zero energy home standards to make it easier for builders to include natural gas in their zero energy homes. Here’s what they did.

The Baby Boomer generation has lived a lifestyle powered by fossil fuels. As they transition into retirement, they are uniquely positioned to lead the way to clean energy.

Teamwork is the key to building zero energy homes that are functional and beautiful.

Since most American homes already have a forced-air heating and cooling system, it’s almost irresistible to use the same ductwork for fresh air ventilation. But beware the pitfalls! Avoid performance-killing mistakes by following these essential guidelines. This is the second installment of a two-part series.

This design/build firm in Portland, Oregon, started with individual zero energy homes. Now they are in the midst of the city’s first zero energy development. With more than half the project under contract, the future looks bright.