Ideas for Energy-Efficient Home Building
For the past several years, the U.S. Department of Energy has been promoting the development of Zero Energy Homes (ZEHs). The DOE has put forth efforts that range from funding studies and partnering with private contractors to providing free building energy analysis software. By some estimates, over 2000 Zero Energy Homes have been built. Beginning this year, the DOE is making even more funding available to support the development of energy efficient technologies which can be applied to ZEHs.
Shirey Contracting, an Issaquah, WA-based construction firm specializing in custom residential homes as well as commercial facilities, plans to begin construction of its “Zero Energy Idea House” in Bellevue this month. Situated on Bass Cove and incorporating modern design elements, the 1700 sq. ft. house is intended to be a demonstration project. It will showcase products and systems that can move a home toward complete energy independence.
In order for a building to supply all of its own power needs, systems must be implemented that reduce its total energy consumption. According to the project’s press release, strategies that will improve the energy efficiency of the Bellevue house include: a green roof; ENERGY STAR lighting, windows, and appliances; in-floor radiant heating; and structural insulated panel (SIP) construction. Power generation will be achieved by installing photovoltaic solar panels and a wind turbine.
The Bass Cove house is due to be completed in the fall. In addition to media outreach and educational presentations, every phase of the home’s construction will be documented at the Zero Energy Idea House website, making this project an excellent — and accessible — resource for the building industry.
Image Credit: Shirey Contracting
