What is a Zero Energy Building？

What is a zero-energy building? Most buildings today use a lot of energy to keep the lights on, cool the air, heat water, and power personal devices. Even installing solar systems will not significantly counter the heavy energy load. There are, however, some buildings that strike a balance, or even tip the scales the other way. These are called zero-energy buildings. They manage this feat by being extremely energy efficient, saving 50 to 70 percent more energy than typical buildings. In these ultra-high-performance buildings, the amount of energy used can be completely offset by renewable energy produced on or around the building. When conditions are not suitable for energy generation, the building will draw energy from the electrical grid to meet its needs. When conditions improve, the on-site renewable energy systems will cover the building's energy need and send excess energy back into the grid to make up the balance. Over the course of a year, the building gives back as much energy as it takes. When zero-energy concepts are applied to groups of buildings, the benefits are shared and multiplied within that zero-energy community. These buildings are also more comfortable, more reliable, affordable to build and operate, and better for the environment. While these might seem like buildings of the future, new technologies are constantly emerging that make zero energy easier and easier to achieve today. In fact, there are already hundreds of zero-energy buildings across the U.S. in many different climates. By becoming ultra-efficient and giving back as much energy as they consume, zero-energy buildings will play an important part in creating a more competitive, energy-secure future.