Net-Zero Energy Houses on the Rise in Edmonton


EDMONTON - Going green is taking a leap forward in the Edmonton neighbourhood of Belgravia, where one net-zero energy show home and two net-zero ready homes are being built in a unique development called Belgravia Green by CHBA Edmonton member, Effect Home Builders.
A net-zero energy house generates as much energy over the course of a year as it consumes. This includes energy used to heat the home, provide hot water, and operate lights and appliances. A net zero ready house is set up to achieve the net zero energy goal whenever a solar-electric system is added to it.
The homes use different approaches to aim at the same goals, with various wall systems and heat sources, but they all rely on extraordinary amounts of insulation and solar energy. www.effecthomes.ca.