EEBA Academy

The planet is in trouble and its human occupants don’t fare much better as rates of cancer, asthma, infertility and obesity increase. Consideration for systems, materials and finishes with low embodied, as well as operational carbon is critical. 

Net-zero energy and zero emission homes/buildings are being built ALL across the U.S., and yet so many buyers either don’t know this level of performance, including optimized comfort and minimized maintenance, is within their grasp. Our panelists on this episode are helping to dispel these misunderstandings.

As climate change drives code advancement, learn how the Ultimate Z.E.N. Home eliminates the use of fossil fuels in a production-built home. 

This 1924 Colonial home had fallen into severe disrepair before coming up for sale. As part of the muchneeded renovation, the new homeowners (two Steven Winter Associates, Inc. employees) wanted to eliminate onsite combustion and produce as much of their operating electricity as possible. Other goals included lower embodied energy materials and a healthy indoor environment. LEED v4.1 for Homes offered one platform to address energy, health, and materials. The home was gutted down to the foundation, framing, and floors before the year-long renovation. After the first 8 months of occupancy (July-February), the home produced 14% more energy than it consumed.