Energy efficiency, once a standout feature of new homes, is now a baseline expectation. Many homebuyers are looking past energy savings to Net Zero energy use.
But what is the difference between the well-established ENERGY STAR program and the burgeoning concept of Net Zero?
For decades, ENERGY STAR has been the gold standard. Launched by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Department of Energy (DOE), it promotes energy efficiency by identifying products, homes and buildings that meet stringent performance requirements. Homes that earn the ENERGY STAR certification save energy, save money and help protect the environment. Certification signifies conformity with the strict performance standards set by the EPA.
The emergence of Net Zero homes is shifting this paradigm. A Net Zero home is one that balances the amount of energy it needs with the renewable energy it can generate. While an ENERGY STAR home focuses on reducing energy consumption, a Net Zero home takes it a step further by producing as much energy as it uses, ensuring a net annual energy bill of zero dollars.
This approach is resonating with a new generation of environmentally conscious homebuyers looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint as well as to contribute positively to the energy grid. Advances in heating technology and the decreasing costs of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, have made achieving Net Zero status more attainable than ever.
The Zero Energy Certification™, developed by the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), recognizes projects that achieve this high level of energy performance. Although Zero Energy Certification is not a federal standard recognized by the EPA or DOE, it demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of Net Zero living, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
As the housing market continues to evolve, ENERGY STAR will, of course, remain a valuable and respected certification. However, the rise of Net Zero homes represents a new frontier in energy performance and sustainability. For homebuyers, the choice between an ENERGY STAR home and a Net Zero home is not just about immediate energy savings; it’s about investing in a sustainable future, ensuring energy independence and making a positive impact on the environment.
In conclusion, while ENERGY STAR has set the foundation for energy-efficient new home construction, Net Zero homes are redefining what it means to live sustainably. As more homebuyers prioritize these values, the housing market will continue to see a shift towards homes that offer complete energy sustainability.
