The design includes a well-insulated building envelope with triple-glazed windows, a solar thermal array for hot water and photovoltaic array for power production. Excess electricity generated during the summer months will go back onto the grid to offset electrical requirements during the colder months, resulting in an overall Net-Zero energy use.
Interior features include use of FSC-certified wood, Energy Star compliant appliances and electrical fixtures and low-flow water fixtures.
Currently under construction, there has been strict attention to waste reduction and recycling during construction and minimal disruption to the building site. Long-term benefits include reduced air, water, and global warming impacts as well as providing a beautiful living space for the owners.
The home is scheduled for completion in late spring 2012.