Pulte® Trailblazing the Future with Zero Net Energy Homes
In 2016, Pulte® became the largest homebuilder to take on a pilot program and build houses that surpassed traditional energy-saving measures, breaking ground with a prototype for net zero homes. The hope for this prototype was to pave the way for a future of maximizing energy efficiency and utility grid load reduction, a necessity in a world connected to the energy network. Here’s a look at the beginnings of our Zero Net Energy journey and what that means for future homebuyers.
Summary:
- What Is a Zero Net Energy Home?
- Why Build Zero Net Energy Houses?
- The Future of Zero Net Energy
- Conclusion
What Is a Zero Net Energy Home?
Our Zero Net Energy (ZNE) home was a prototype made to thrive alongside California’s long-term energy goals, with the goal of ultimately extending these standards nationwide.
ZNE home construction combines many net zero energy building methods, highly efficient insulation, HVAC, lighting technologies, and more with on-site solar energy production, helping offset the home's energy consumption.
Net zero energy homes are also commonly grid-connected to accommodate various energy needs, allowing them to export excess electricity during surplus periods and draw power from the grid when renewable production falls short.
Our net zero energy house prototype incorporated numerous energy-saving elements, including:
- Roofline insulation
- Solar panels
- Energy-efficient windows
- Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats
- Exterior wall insulation
- Low-flow toilets and fixtures
- Low-VOC paint and tile
- High-end air filtration and mechanical ventilation
- LED lighting
- Tankless hot water heater
- Induction cooktops
Building a net zero house prototype helped establish and refine best practices for Pulte in constructing increasingly energy-efficient new homes.
Why Build Zero Net Energy Houses?
The objective of building this prototype was to develop the most streamlined approach to constructing ZNE homes that maintained a balance between feasible construction, affordability, and superior quality.
One critical goal of net zero home construction is to have the house generate as much energy as it consumes each year. Working with solar power providers, building materials producer Owens Corning®, and heating/cooling systems supplier Lennox®, we hope to produce innovative, renewable, and affordable net zero homes like this prototype for homebuyers nationwide.