Are there any incentives for home buyers to purchase or build a zero energy home?

Zero energy homes, or zero net energy homes (ZNE) are homes independent of utilities otherwise provided to most homes from the grid. All energy is produced either on or off site by solar, or wind energy sources. Successful ZNE homes have been introduced into the market from $100 - $250 per square foot, obviously, the smaller the home, the more efficient heating and cooling will be.

The usage of natural lighting is also a critical factor in new homes, and must be planned for throughout the home’s design. Incentives from both federal and state will offer credits for buying energy efficient homes. There are credits available for energy efficient purchases such as water heaters, furnaces, boilers, central air conditioners, and other large ticket purchases.

There are also several different types of tax rebates and loans available depending on what type of conservation you are planning for. At this time, entering into a decision to either purchase a ZNE home, or a home focused on energy conservation, depends entirely on you, and what you are willing to afford. ZNE homes generally cost more, and regaining savings can be achieved after years of savings off the grid.

The rise and fall of fossil fuels will decide how fast or slow these gains will be. Rebates and incentives are many, and differ from state to state; you can check available incentives here for your state: dsireusa.org/incentives/. Homes with energy conservation in mind need to be assessed properly by a professional.

After being inspected, you may find that some homes offer nothing more than just energy conserving appliances, while losing excessive energy through poorly insulated, or planned floor space. Research is necessary, and knowledge is power. I hope this helps, and thanks for your question.

Sources used: http://www.toolbase.org/Home-Building-Topics/zero-energy-homes/zero-energy-home-project http://news.cnet.com/8301-11128_3-10286278-54.html.

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